This unit has been fully revised for 2026
Sequence of Learning for Teachers
In this unit of work children develop their drawing skills by creating small patterns called Zentangles. This unit of work provides an opportunity to develop and consolidate children’s knowledge and understanding of how the eight elements of art are used to create artwork. In learning that Zentangles are small abstract works of art, children also deepen their understanding of how to create patterns.
This knowledge, skills and understanding is delivered through the following convergent task sessions:
Session 1: Walking the Line
Session 2: Zentangle Collage
Session 3: Squiggles
Session 4: Zentangles
Creative Outcome (Divergent task) – The Great Wave
The unit of work completes with the creative outcome (divergent task) activity that can be delivered over two or more sessions. These sessions can also be used for children to complete activities from sessions 1-4. For the creative outcome children learn about the iconic artwork The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai. They use this artwork as the starting point for their own interpretation of this iconic work of art. They apply a range of skills and techniques to create a mixed media composition depicting the Great Wave.
The creative outcome activity provides an opportunity for children to apply their knowledge, skills and understanding from previous sessions in this unit of work. Through the creative outcome children will develop their creativity and understanding of the creative process by combining their imagination with the knowledge they have acquired.
Each Unit of work consists of:
• Comprehensive medium-term planning that details the learning journey, resources, vocabulary development and links to online learning.
• Separate lesson presentations for each teaching session.
• Additional presentations linked to learning within the unit.
• Photocopiable resources to support teaching within the unit.
• Advice on challenge and support in art and design.
• Assessment statements: Keeping up with the curriculum.

In addition to the above, each unit also includes a downloadable primary progression map for art and design (curriculum pathway) and an extensive vocabulary list. Combining and sequencing Art Academy units of work allows schools to create a scheme of work for art and design from key stage 1 to the end of key stage 2.