Essential information
| Location | |
|---|---|
| Key Stage |
Key Stage 2
|
| Curriculum links |
Art
History
|
| Session length | 90 minutes |
| Session times | Thursday, 10.15-11.45 and 12.30-14.00 |
| Capacity | 30 pupils per session |
| Price | £90 |
Session overview
Introduction
Learners discuss what the word power means to them.
Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I
Learners examine this iconic portrait and spot symbols of power in the painting, including a globe, crown and Tudor rose. They compare the portrait to others in the same room.
Activity 1: Pose making
After exploring more portraits in the gallery, learners recreate the pose and style of a chosen subject.
Discussion: Icons vs symbols
In the Great Hall, learners consider icons and symbols in portraits.
Projecting their power
Inspired by what they have seen, learners work in groups of 3 or 4 to compose their own portrait poses, using costumes and props. Teachers are invited to take photographs to record learners’ ideas.
Learning objectives
Learners will:
- Develop their observation and investigation skills
- Analyse famous and lesser-known artworks
- Discuss what power means and how it is explored in art
Curriculum links
KS2 Art and History
- Pupils should be able to think critically and develop a more rigorous understanding of art and design
- Decode artwork equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design
Key words
Power, Pose, Symbolism, Icons, Expression, Subtext
Suggested pre-visit knowledge and activities
We recommend that learners are introduced to the idea of what a portrait is before the session. Can a portrait tell us something about who a person is or what they are like? Exploring this question will help children engage more deeply with the portraits they encounter. Encourage children to think about how they can express their personality and the values that matter to them.
Suggested post-visit knowledge and activities
We encourage schools to display the photographs taken by teachers during the visit to the Queen’s House and to invite learners to create their own self-portraits. These portraits should include meaningful objects that reflect their self-image to and explore different aspects of identity. What do their chosen objects symbolise? What key messages are they communicating about who they are?
Useful links
Picture Yourself: Heritage, Oracy and Public Speaking
The Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I