Study Hub

Study Guides

This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.

Back to Study HubBrowse Year 5 Art and design Guides

Year 5 - Art and design

Surface decoration and completion of a mask

Sculpture: make a mask

Unit Summary

Masks have been created and used by many cultures and peoples through the ages, including in contemporary society for film and TV. In this unit, pupils will learn various sculpture techniques, design and make a mask.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use surface decoration to enhance the visual impact of a mask sculpture.

Key Notes

  • Surface decoration enhances the visual appeal and meaning of a mask.
  • Different textures and patterns can be created using various tools and materials, such as paint, fabric, and beads.
  • The choice of colours, textures, and patterns should reflect the theme of the mask (e.g. cultural or mythical).
  • Surface decoration techniques include layering, brushing, gluing, and adding 3D elements like beads or fabric.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • surface decoration: The process of adding patterns, textures, and colours to the exterior of an object to enhance its visual impact.
  • pattern: A repeated decorative design used to create visual interest.
  • contrast: The difference between elements such as colours or textures that makes them stand out.
  • symbol: A mark or character used to represent an idea, object, or relationship.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Adding too many decorations will make the mask too busy or overwhelming.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Surface decoration enhances the visual appeal and meaning of a mask. Different textures and patterns can be created using various tools and materials, such as paint, fabric, and beads.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'surface decoration'

The process of adding patterns, textures, and colours to the exterior of an object to enhance its visual impact.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Adding too many decorations will make the mask too busy or overwhelming. Correction: It's important to find balance in the mask's design. Decoration can enhance the mask and highlight specific areas, such as the eyes or mouth, without overcrowding the mask's overall look. Less can be more in some areas.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 Art and design guide library.