Repeated patterns

The teacher taught the pupils to manipulate images using ICT. They used a range of tools to develop an image, making use of repeated patterns.

The teacher made a collection of items decorated with repeated patterns. It included fabrics, wrapping paper and packaging. The teacher had examples of work by William Morris and a number of Islamic patterns.

The teacher demonstrated the use of a graphics package, showing the pupils how to design a motif and how to copy and paste the motif in order to create a pattern. During the demonstration, the teacher gave a running commentary about her choices, using the UNDO button to go back a step when appropriate.

She showed the class how to select and flip images. She talked about features of patterns such as visual rhythms and drop patterns. She demonstrated the use of SAVE AS to save different versions of her image.

Later, the pupils applied the techniques to create their own 'wrapping paper' or fabric design patterns. The teacher reminded the pupils to save versions of work. They selected and printed out three different images showing the development of their ideas.

The teacher gave the class opportunities to talk about their images, the reasons for their choices and how ICT had helped them to complete the task.

To use a graphics package to develop an image, saving different versions.

To utilise a variety of tools, including cut, paste and flip to create and develop repeated patterns.

In this example, Roopa has used features of a graphics package effectively to develop an image.

She has used drawing tools to design two simple floral motifs. She has selected, copied and pasted the motifs to create a repeated pattern. She has used the fill tool to explore a variety of colour combinations. Later, she has used the flip tool to experiment with the arrangements of the motif. She has used SAVE AS to create different versions.

She has printed out thumbnails of her work and describes her use of ICT in the development of her pattern. She has identified some of the benefits of using ICT, such as the use of the undo feature and the creation of a 'stamp', to create repeated patterns.

This example illustrates aspects of work at level 3. Roopa uses ICT to generate and develop ideas. She uses and talks about the features of the graphics package that contribute to the design process.

To make further progress, Roopa could be given opportunities to gather and manipulate visual images from a range of sources, such as a scanner or a digital camera. She could be introduced to a more advanced graphics package that includes more processing features, such as layering.