Sculpture & 3D: Abstract shape
This unit focuses on teaching pupils how to transform 2D card shapes into three-dimensional structures and sculptures. Pupils explore abstract shapes and space, develop skills in constructing 3D objects, and understand the difference between 2D and 3D art. Use this unit hub to inform your medium-term plan and to navigate to related resources.
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Sculpture and 3D: Abstract shape and space
Unit outcomes
Pupils who are secure will be able to:
- Try out different ways to make card shapes three dimensional, e.g. folding and curving the card or joining the flat shapes together.
- Make a structure that holds its 3D shape.
- Explain in simple terms the difference between 2D and 3D art.
- Combine shapes together to make an interesting free-standing sculpture.
- Try out more than one way to create joins between shapes.
- Identify familiar 2D shapes in photographs.
- Identify shapes in the negative space between objects.
- Draw a cardboard model from different angles, focusing on shapes in the positive and negative space to achieve an abstract effect.
- Plan an abstract sculpture based on play equipment.
- Show that they have learned how to shape materials in more than one way (e.g. by folding and rolling).
- Choose appropriate methods for joining elements in their sculptures.
- Show that they have thought about how to improve their sculptures and made choices about what to add.
- Work cooperatively in pairs to add detail to their artwork.
Suggested prior learning
Sculpture and 3D: Clay houses
Get startedLessons
Lesson 1: Structural shapes
- To join 2D shapes to make 3D structures.
- To join materials in different ways when working in 3D.
Lesson 3: Seeing space
- To develop ideas for 3D artwork.
Lesson 4: Abstract sculpture
- To apply knowledge of sculpture when working in 3D.
Lesson 5: Surface decoration
- To evaluate and improve an artwork.
Key skills
Key knowledge
Related content
Unit resources
Knowledge organiser: Art & design – Sculpture and 3D: Abstract shape and space
Aimed at pupils, a single page with a visual summary of key facts and definitions from the unit.
Vocabulary display: Abstract shape and space
A display version of the key vocabulary from the Abstract shape and space unit.
Cross-curricular opportunities
Design and technology: Technical knowledge
Mathematics: Geometry – properties of shapes