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Art

Same but Different: Repetition with Variation

Overview

Students explore how patterns can change slightly to create interest while still maintaining repetition.

Learning Objective
Students understand how repeating elements with variation creates more interesting and dynamic designs.

Resources needed

  • Paper
  • Pencils
  • Optional: coloured pencils or markers

Lesson stages

0 / 11 done
  1. 1 Introduce repetition as repeating the same element.
  2. 2 Discuss variation: small changes in size, shape, or colour.
  3. 3 Show examples of patterns with variation.
  4. 4 Students create a base shape or design.
  5. 5 Repeat it across the page.
  6. 6 Add variation to each repetition.
  7. 7 Encourage creativity while maintaining connection.
  8. 8 Midway check: identify repetition and variation.
  9. 9 Students refine designs.
  10. 10 In pairs, students describe the changes they made.
  11. 11 Discuss: how does variation improve the pattern?

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Use colour variation only.
  • Create a story through variation.
  • Limit to geometric shapes.
More information

Teach: repeat, vary, change, pattern, design. Use frames: 'I changed… each time…'.

Provide templates or starting shapes. Allow copying before modifying.

Can students maintain repetition while introducing variation? Can they explain changes?

Draw patterns in sand or use objects.

Students may create completely different shapes instead of variations.

Variation within repetition is key in design, music, and visual arts.

Activity details
Primary Medium 30 minutes no prep Solo, Pairs Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Repetition Variation Pattern Design