Pattern and Mark-Making Lesson: Turtle Zentangle Design

This lesson is designed for KS3 / Year 7 students and focuses on developing pattern, mark-making and observational skills. Pupils will use a turtle illustration as a starting point to explore a variety of marks and textures, including lines, dots, hatching, cross-hatching, and patterns inspired by Zentangle.

Students are encouraged to experiment with different techniques to create intricate, decorative surfaces while learning how repetition, rhythm and variation can make patterns visually interesting. The lesson combines creativity with skill-building, helping pupils develop control, patience and observational awareness.

Structured tasks guide students in adding mark-making detail to the turtle’s shell and body, linking careful observation with imaginative pattern design. This lesson works well as a standalone skills activity or as part of a wider drawing, pattern, or natural forms project, supporting progression in KS3 art.

Skills developed:

Observational drawing and detailing

Exploring a range of mark-making techniques

Creating patterns using repetition and variation

Experimenting with Zentangle-inspired designs

Building control, precision, and creativity in drawing