Principles of Design Art Lessons PATTERN REPETITION Art Activities Art Projects

Introduce your students to the Principle of Design: Pattern and Repetition with this vibrant, hands-on Pattern & Repetition Art Unit! This complete teaching resource is perfect for helping students in Grades 3 to 8 explore how rhythm, repetition, symmetry, and motif are used in visual art. With video instruction, printable handouts, mini art challenges, and three full-length art projects, students will build a solid understanding of pattern in art—while having a blast creating colorful, structured compositions.

Whether you're teaching in the classroom, supporting homeschool learning, or prepping for a no-stress sub day, this 110+ page unit has everything you need: step-by-step guided slides, art history resources, rubrics, display signs, and self-reflection tools to support student growth and creativity. This resource helps students connect the dots between design thinking and art-making—while meeting curriculum standards with confidence.

This Resource Includes (Non-Editable, American English):

Lesson 1: What is Pattern & Repetition in Art?

• Engaging Video Presentation
  
• PDF Slide Deck for teacher-led delivery
  
• Informational Handouts: Definitions, Examples, & Note-Taking Templates
  

Lesson 2: Mini Art Challenge – Exploring Pattern

• Warm-Up Activity & Step-by-Step Instructions
  
• Two Student Templates for experimenting with visual repetition
  
• Full Lesson Plan
  

Lesson 3: Art History & Famous Works with Pattern

• Student Handout featuring historical artworks showcasing repetition & motif
  
• Reflection and Note-Taking Sheets
  
• Guided Teacher Lesson Plan
  

Three Full-Length Art Project Tutorials Included:

Art Project #1: Koi Fish Pattern Artwork

• Focus: Organic patterns, flowing repetition, and movement
  
• Students design dynamic koi fish using repetition and symmetry in layout
  

Art Project #2: Groovy Abstract Pattern Artwork

• Focus: Bold colors, geometric shapes, and retro-style repetition
  
• Students build abstract compositions using contrast and line repetition
  

Art Project #3: Hummingbird Pattern Artwork

• Focus: Nature-based motifs, organic repetition, and radial design
  
• Students illustrate a hummingbird using patterned linework and symmetrical balance
  

Each Art Project Tutorial Includes:

• Complete Lesson Plan with Learning Goals and Materials List
  
• Step-by-Step Visual Slide Instructions & Drawing Handouts
  
• Rubrics for Assessment
  
• Self-Reflection Sheet & Artist Statement Template
  
• Bulletin Board Display Signs for Student Artwork
  

How to Use This Art Unit:

• Teach as a full multi-week unit or as stand-alone art projects
  
• Ideal for:
  
  • In-person art instruction
    
  • Distance or hybrid learning
    
  • Homeschool visual art curriculum
    
  • Substitute teacher or emergency art plans
    

• A perfect addition to your Elements and Principles of Design curriculum
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is this resource for?
A: This unit is perfect for general education teachers, visual art educators, homeschooling parents, and substitute teachers looking for a creative and standards-aligned way to teach pattern and repetition in art.

Q: How do I use this unit in my teaching?
A: Begin with the slides or video to introduce the concept, then guide your students through the mini warm-up and full-length projects using the included printable handouts and visual instructions. It’s structured for success—no experience required!

Q: How long will it take to teach this unit?
A: Each full art project takes about 2–3 class sessions, while the intro and mini challenge lessons can be completed in 1 session each. Flexible for any teaching schedule!

Want to try my lessons first? My Free Art Lesson Library is a great place to start.