New
New
Year 5
Create expressive typographic work
I can experiment with typography to express different emotions and ideas.
New
New
Year 5
Create expressive typographic work
I can experiment with typography to express different emotions and ideas.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Learn how graphic designers use typography in posters, advertisements and everyday life.
- Explore how typography can go beyond functional text to become an art form.
- Create a piece of expressive typographic art that uses design elements to communicate emotion or meaning.
Keywords
Typography - arranging letters and text in a way that makes them readable and visually appealing
Expression - communicating emotion, mood or energy through visual art and design
Composition - how different elements are placed and organised in a piece of art
Visual hierarchy - arranging design elements in order of importance
Common misconception
Typographic designs should be minimal because otherwise they are hard to read and do not communicate a clear message.
Typography enhances the clarity of a design, making text easier to read by arranging elements with a visual hierarchy.
Encourage pupils to be ambitious with their expressive typography, choosing a design concept which is meaningful to them. Provide examples such as poster designs, book covers and music albums that are inspiring to showcase different compositions.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on
Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
What is an expressive letterform?
a colourful type of paper
a formal letter invitation
Q2.
Why is colour important in art and design?
It increases its value.
It is cheaper to print.
Q3.
How are signs and symbols used in art and design?
to decorate borders
to add colour
Q4.
What is a serif?
a form of calligraphy
a type of printing ink
Q5.
A is the shape and design of a single letter.
letterheight
letterweight
Q6.
What is a key feature of graphic design?
using pencils and pens to make different marks
using natural forms to draw from observation
Exit quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
How can composition affect a typographic design?
It hides the text.
It makes words longer.
Q2.
What does typography involve besides choosing typefaces?
adding images
printing material
Q3.
What qualities best describe script typefaces?
bold and aggressive
casual and playful
Q4.
Why is typography important for brands?
It decorates text.
It is easy to change.
Q5.
What is a key element of expressive typography?
hiding messages
using many colours
Q6.
A visual arranges elements in order of importance.
moodboard
theory