Looking for a fun way to introduce globalisation through Art & Design?

This ready-to-teach KS3 lesson explores how objects, materials, art styles and ideas travel across countries and cultures, using the Silk Road as a starting point.

Students begin by thinking about the global journey of everyday objects before exploring the Silk Road, trade, cultural exchange and the movement of ideas. They then turn their learning into a creative outcome by designing a Silk Road bumper sticker for a camel or caravan.

The lesson is visual, accessible and designed to encourage discussion without overwhelming students with text.

Included in the PowerPoint:

Globalisation starter activity
Introduction to the Silk Road
Visual examples of globally sourced materials
Silk Road video + simple Watch & Think questions
Printable student question sheet
Silk Road map and key traded goods
Introduction to bumper sticker design
Design criteria and visual prompts
Funny Silk Road slogan ideas
Bumper sticker templates and inspiration
Clear student-friendly instructions throughout

Students will explore:

How goods and ideas travel
Cultural exchange
Globalisation
The Silk Road
Visual communication
Colour, contrast, imagery and layout
How art and design can communicate an idea quickly

Suitable for Year 7 / KS3 Art & Design, particularly as an introduction to globalisation, cultural connections or a wider landscapes/theme-based project.

The activities are also accessible for EAL learners, with short questions, visual prompts and opportunities to respond using key words rather than long written answers.

A lively lesson that combines Art, History and Geography while still giving students a clear and enjoyable creative outcome.

Download the lesson, open the PowerPoint and teach — everything is ready to go.