Seventh graders learn about positive space (the subject) and negative space (the empty area around it) — and how artists use both to make balanced, interesting compositions.
Students will be able to…
Every artwork has the subject AND the space around it — and BOTH matter! What’s the difference between positive and negative space?
Project this and sort each into positive space (the object) or negative space (the area around it).
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
Every artwork has the subject AND the space around it — both matter!
Students explore.
Students create.
Students share.
Students respond.
Aligned to the National Core Arts Standards (Visual Arts).
Analyze positive and negative space.
Use space in composition.
Explore space as an element.
Perceive space in art.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students draw an object and shade the negative space around it. A printable space sheet is in the Arts library.
Tap a card to flip it, then rate whether you knew it. Built from this lesson’s vocabulary.
A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.