Year 7 Gothic Art & Architecture Unit: Art and Design Resource Pack

Explore the fascinating world of Gothic art and architecture with this comprehensive unit designed for Year 7 students. This resource combines historical exploration, art-making techniques, and creative problem-solving to bring the Gothic era to life in your classroom.

What’s Included:

Lesson Presentations:
Lesson 1: Introduction to Gothic Art & Architecture – Students learn about key features of Gothic architecture and create tonal drawings inspired by famous Gothic designs
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Lesson 2: Gargoyle Drawings – Introduces students to gargoyles, their function, and artistic characteristics, culminating in pastel or chalk drawings
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Lesson 3 & 4: Relief Sculpture – Students design and create low-relief gargoyle sculptures using cardboard, inspired by Gothic motifs
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Lesson 5: High Relief Gargoyle Sculptures – Develops students’ 3D art skills with mixed media, focusing on high-relief techniques
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Lesson 6 & 7: Paper Mâché Sculptures – Students transform their designs into fully realised sculptures using paper mâché
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Lesson 8 & 9: Painting Techniques – Teaches students how to paint their sculptures to replicate the stone-like textures of Gothic architecture
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Home Learning Menu:
A variety of differentiated tasks to extend learning, including creative diary entries, trading cards, comic strips, and timelines inspired by Giotto di Bondone
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End-of-Term Checklist:
Helps students ensure their sketchbooks are complete and assessments are finalised, with opportunities for reflection and mindful activities
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Key Features:

Differentiated Learning: Tasks include clear success criteria (Working Towards, Meeting, Exceeding) to guide students.
Cross-Curricular Links: Combines art, history, and literacy through Gothic themes and creative writing.
Skills Development: Focuses on tonal drawing, relief sculpture, and painting techniques, enhancing both 2D and 3D art skills.
Creative Outputs: Students produce a portfolio of drawings, sculptures, and evaluations that showcase their learning journey.
Why Use This Resource?

Aligns with Key Stage 3 Art & Design curriculum.
Engages students with the dramatic and imaginative themes of the Gothic era.
Supports skills in observational drawing, design, and sculpture.
Easily adapted for GCSE projects.
This unit is perfect for bringing history and art together in an inspiring and engaging way!