Lesson Plan
Course Title: Graphic Design and Illustration
Session Title: Repeat Pattern Tile Design
Lesson Duration: Approximately three - four 90 minute classes.
[Lesson length is subjective and will vary from instructor to instructor]
Performance Objective:
Upon completion of this assignment, the student will create an original piece of artwork based
on a pattern and describe the elements and principles of design as they relate to the created
work.
Specific Objectives:
 Discuss the Elements and Principles of Design as related to the lesson.
 Research historical examples of repeated designs used in multiple cultures.
 Create original designs in a 6” x 6” format.
 Create three color sketches and select the most successful.
 Using the selected design, create a 6” x 6” template on tracing paper.
 Use a light box to copy the template design to the final paper.
 Use color pencils to complete the design with no fewer than four colors.
 Write a brief description of completed design using descriptive language and specifying how
the design might be used in commercial application.
Preparation
TEKS Correlations:
130.88(1) The student applies academic knowledge and skills in art and design projects. The
student is expected to:
(B) apply mathematics knowledge and skills by identifying whole numbers, decimals, and
fractions applied to measurement and scale; demonstrating knowledge of arithmetic
operations; using conversion methods such as fractions to decimals and inches to points;
and applying measurement to solve a problem.
130.88(8) The student applies ethical decision making and understands and complies with laws
regarding use of technology in graphic design and illustration. The student is expected to:
(B) discuss and apply copyright laws in relation to fair use and acquisition
130.88(11) The student develops an increasing understanding of graphic design and illustration.
The student is expected to:
(A) research art and design career opportunities and qualifications;
(B) research the history and evolution of art and design by:
(i) explaining the history of visual arts and design;
(ii) understanding general characteristics in artwork from a variety of cultures; and
(iii) comparing current visual arts technologies with historical technologies;
(C) interpret, evaluate, and justify design decisions;
(D) conduct oral or written critiques of designs by:
(i) applying a critical method of evaluation;
(E) analyze and apply art elements and principles;
(F) employ a creative design process to create original two- or three-dimensional projects
by:
(i) creating designs for defined applications;
(ii) applying elements of design;
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
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(iv) using good composition;
(vii) creating a project by applying color
Interdisciplinary Correlations
Art, Level I:
117.52 (c)(1) Perception. The student develops and organizes ideas from the environment. The
student is expected to:
(A) illustrate ideas for artworks from direct observation, experiences, and imagination; and
(B) compare and contrast the use of art elements (color, texture, form, line, space, value)
and art principles (emphasis, pattern, rhythm, balance, proportion, unity) in personal
artworks and those of others, using vocabulary accurately.
117.52 (c)(2) Creative expression/performance. The student expresses ideas through original
artworks, using a variety of media with appropriate skill. The student is expected to:
(A) create visual solutions by elaborating on direct observation, experiences, and
imagination;
(C) demonstrate effective use of art media and tools in design, drawing, painting,
printmaking, and sculpture.
117.52 (c)(3) Historical/cultural heritage. The student demonstrates an understanding of art
history and culture as records of human achievement. The student is expected to:
(A) compare and contrast historical and contemporary styles, identifying general themes
and trends;
(B) describe general characteristics in artworks from a variety of cultures; and
(C) compare and contrast career and avocational opportunities in art.
Instructor/Trainer
References:
1. Research online references for Elements and Principles of Design
2. Research online for the Victoria and Albert Museum
3. National Museum of the American Indian, http://www.nmai.si.edu/
4. Textile pattern online references: http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/geom/hd_geom.htm,
http://www.textilemuseum.org/exhibitions/previous.htm,
http://www.medievaltextiles.org/gallery/gallery.html, www.dartmouth.edu
5. Research online references for Color Harmonies
Instructional Aids:
1. Slide presentation with examples of repeat tile designs and other designs from multiple
cultural sources.
2. Handout from the J. Paul Getty Museum, Elements of Art:
http://www.getty.edu/education/teachers/building_lessons/elements_art.pdf
3. Handout on the Principles of Design
Materials Needed:
1. Tracing paper
2. Black markers
3. Rulers, pencils
4. 14” x 14” square drawing paper
5. Copy paper cut into 6” squares
6. Color pencils
7. Color Wheel
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
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Equipment Needed:
1. Projector for Slide Presentation
2. Computer with online access
3. Light box for tracing.
Learner
Online searches for design inspiration using the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the National
Museum of the American Indian, http://www.nmai.si.edu/ as a starting point.
Introduction
MI
Introduction (LSI Quadrant I):
SHOW: Slide Presentation on Repeat Design.
SAY: Cultures throughout history have used repeated designs to embellish
functional and decorative objects such as tiles, ceramics, metalwork, jewelry, fabrics,
weaving, and beadwork.
ASK: What other designs can you think of with cultural references – such as tattoos?
SAY: Design is also an integral part of certain religious relics and ceremonies such
as sand mandalas created by Tibetan Buddhist monks or labyrinths and stained
glass in Christian cathedrals.
SAY: Periods and Styles (such as Art Deco, Art and Crafts, Rococo, Medieval, Meiji,
and countless others) have distinctive qualities.
ASK: Do you identify with a particular cultural reference, or have a favorite art period
or style? How does that influence your design choices?
SAY: Look around and take note of the use of repeated designs that you see daily.
Tee shirts, mugs, and corporate logos utilize repetitive designs. Though the
manufacturing methods have changed from centuries past; we still make use of
repetitive designs in much the same way as people always have.
ASK: Are there distinctive qualities to contemporary repeated designs and do they
reflect the cultures in which they are created?
ASK: In what type of industries might a designer or illustrator be employed?
Outline
MI
Outline (LSI Quadrant II):
Instructor Notes:
I.
Special emphasis on Pattern,
Balance, Unity, and Color
Harmony.
II.
Elements and Principles of Design
A. Unity
B. Variety
C. Emphasis
D. Balance
E. Proportion
F. Pattern
G. Rhythm
H. Line
I. Shape
J. Form
K. Space
L. Color
M. Texture
Repeated Designs
A. Multiple cultures
Handouts
The Victoria and Albert
Museum online site has
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
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3
B. Artistic Movements
some of the best examples of
decorative design across
cultures throughout history.
The National Museum of the
American Indian is another
excellent resource.
Challenge students to find
other internet sources.
III.
Create Original Sketches
A. Designs on a 6” square format.
B. Fold the square in half so that it forms a
triangle.
C. Design at edges must meet at the same
point on the opposite half.
D. Work out a harmonious color scheme with
no fewer than four colors.
Stress that sketches should
be original. They may use the
examples shown as
inspiration but should make
the designs uniquely their
own.
If necessary, re-teach color
theory and emotional
associations of color. Discuss
analogous, complementary,
and combinations on the
color wheel.
IV.
Color sketches will be shown to the client for
selection and approval
A. Instructor will act at the client
B. Three Color sketches are to be completed
C. Select most successful sketch for the 6”
square
The instructor will act as the
client. Assist the student in
selecting the most
appropriate design.
V.
Create a 6” square template
A. Use black fine tip markers and tracing
paper.
B. Proper measurements required
A. Check measurements with client before
proceeding
VI.
Preparing Final Paper
A. Use 14” x 14” sheet of white paper
B. Measure and mark the top and bottom of
each edge at 1”, 7”, and 13”.
C. Lightly draw a line so that there is a 1”
border and the page is divided into four
equal parts.
VII. Creating Final Design
A. Use a Light Box to copy template design
onto final paper.
B. Position template under final paper aligning
to one of the four quadrants
Proper measurements are
critical and should be
checked.
A sunny window may be
used instead of a light box.
Alternately, a “carbon” may
be made by using a soft
pencil on the back side of the
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
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4
IX.
C. Center point always remains steady
D. Trace design and rotate template 90
degrees
E. Trace the new quadrant and repeat until
transfer is complete
template and tracing over the
line design.
Complete Design
A. No fewer than four colors using pencils or
markers
B. Must be consistent in color and technique
throughout each of the quadrants
C. Final product forms a unified whole.
May need to re-teach color
pencil technique including
visual texture and tints.
X.
Final Process
A. Write a brief description of completed design
B. Use descriptive language
C. Specify how the design could be used in
commercial application
D. Complete self assessment portion of rubric
Application
MI
Guided Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
The teacher will demonstrate how the patterns align, are rotated and repeated by
using a sample template while students observe. The teacher will post a visual
representation on a white/black board with the measurement specifics for the final
artwork.
MI
Independent Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
Students will conduct research, develop ideas and create artworks independently.
Summary
MI
Review (LSI Quadrants I and IV):
Q & A Session:
Q: How have people throughout history made use of design in their everyday lives?
A: To embellish textiles, tiles, jewelry, ironwork, ceramics, beadwork, etc.
Q: How is design/illustration used in products and product marketing today?
A: Still used to decorate consumer products. Other uses include logo design,
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
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signage, and graphics.
Q: What is Balance in an artwork?
A: The way in which an artwork is arranged to make the different parts seem equally
important.
Q: Describe the different types of balance used in this project.
A: Symmetrical Balance – both sides of a center line are the same, or about the
same. Example: butterfly wings, our bodies. Radial Balance – a type of balance
in which shapes or lines spread out from a center point, like a wheel.
Q: Describe an analogous color scheme.
A: Colors next to each other on the color wheel such as yellow, yellow green, green,
blue green, blue.
Q: What are complementary colors and describe their effect when used together in
a color scheme.
A: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel like red and green. The high
contrast of complementary colors creates a vibrant look especially when used at
full saturation. This color scheme must be managed well so it is not jarring.
Complementary colors are tricky to use in large doses, but work well when you
want something to stand out. Complementary colors are really bad for text.
Q: When talking about color, what is a “tint” and describe how to achieve tints using
color pencil technique?
A: A tint is the addition of white (when using paint) to a color. When using color
pencil technique, a tint can be achieved by using a light, steady application of
color rather than bearing down with the pencil.
Q: Describe the difference between “geometric” and “organic” lines or shapes.
A: Geometric shapes have sharp edges and create precise patterns. Organic
shapes are curved and have natural, irregular edges.
Q: Why are precise measurements critical to the success of this project?
A: If the measurements are “off”, the repeated pattern will not match up and flow
throughout creating disunity.
Evaluation
MI
Informal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III):
Teacher will circulate during independent practice checking for understanding of
concepts and techniques. Teacher will observe student progress and make
suggestions / provide guidance as necessary.
MI
Formal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III, IV):
Rubric for Repeat Tile Design
Extension
MI
Extension/Enrichment (LSI Quadrant IV):
Create a three-dimensional bas relief tile using the same design in clay.
Use linoleum block printing to recreate the lesson.
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
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6
Principles of Design Handout
Unity – a quality that occurs when all part of an artwork combine to create a sense of
completion and wholeness.
Variety – a combination of the elements of art to provide interest in the artwork
Emphasis – the visual sense of importance given to objects or areas in artwork. This is
accomplished with the size, color, shape, or placement of an object or area to create
dominance, contrast, or a focal point.
Balance – the ways an artwork is arranged to make the different parts seem equally
important.



Symmetrical Balance – (formal balance) type of balance where both sides of a
center line are the same, or about the same. Example: our faces, our bodies.
Asymmetrical Balance – (informal balance) type of balance where two sides of an
artwork are not alike, but carry equal or nearly equal visual weight. Both sides
look equally important but they are not the same.
Radial Balance – a type of balance in which shapes or lines spread out from a
center point, like a wheel.
Proportion – the size relationship of the parts of an artwork to each other and/or to the
whole piece. Example: the size relationship of the nose to the whole face shows
proportion.
Pattern – repetition of line, shape, color, texture, space or form in an artwork. A pattern
is a model or plan to be followed when making something.
Rhythm – a sense of visual movement or motion caused by the repetition of the
elements of art in an artwork. In music, rhythm refers to the pattern of the notes.



Progressive Rhythm – Rhythm created by showing regular changes in a repeated
element, such as a series of squares that progressively increase in size from
small to large. The changes may also progress from top to bottom, or dark to
light.
Regular Rhythm – Rhythm in an artwork created by repeating the same element,
such as a shape, without variation.
Alternating Rhythm – Rhythm created by repeating two or more elements on a
regular, interchanging basis.
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
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7
Repeat Pattern Tile Design Rubric
Student Name:
Evaluation
Criteria
Excellent
(12.5 pts.)
Good
(10 pts.)
Poor
(7 pt.)
Contributes to the
discussion, adds new points
of consideration.
Some participation in
discussion.
Not engaged in
discussion.
Produces one fully formed
design sketch with good
radial balance, consistent
line and shape, focus and
unity.
Weak sketches with
limited execution of
good design
principles.
Good color usage that
enhances the design
concept and uses at least
four colors.
Limited color
exploration. Color
theme detracts from
the overall design.
Does not use at least
four colors.
Unique design
Good understanding of
historical perspective.
Adapts and updates
examples.
Borrows heavily or
copies examples
directly.
Template design is executed
properly. Final
measurements are correct
and repeated pattern aligns
properly in each quarter.
Template is well executed.
Overall appearance of final
product is good.
Neatness
Excellent execution, clean
with consistent color and
technique.
Clean with consistent color
and technique.
Completion
All steps of the project are
completed on time and
correctly.
All steps of the project are
completed on time with
corrections made in timely
manner.
Fails to observe the
steps and deadlines.
Well written personal
statement using appropriate
vocabulary. Description of
how the artwork could be
used in practical application.
Good statement using
appropriate vocabulary.
Description of how the
artwork could be used in
practical application.
Limited statement.
Classroom
Participation.
Observation and
understanding of
historical design
uses and
examples.
Design sketches
Color Scheme
Originality of
design
Correct
measurements and
alignment
Self Assessment
Produces three viable
design sketches that
demonstrate good radial
balance, consistent line and
shape, focus and unity.
Demonstrates understanding
of color theory. Good color
exploration with use of tints.
Uses at least four colors.
Color enhances the design
concept.
Repeated pattern
does not align or is
not rotated correctly.
Measurements are
off-center.
Messy, smudged, or
folded, colors not
consistent in final
product.
Total Score
Max = 100
AAVTC: Graphic Design & Illustration - Repeat Pattern Tile Design
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
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Score