Marble Painting

Marble Painting is a free, NQF-aligned Art & Craft activity for ages 5 to 10. It includes a learning intention, a materials list, step-by-step instructions and framework links.

Learning intention

This experience supports children to experiment with movement and cause-and-effect while expressing their own creative ideas.

You'll need

• Paper
• Paint
• 3-4 marbles
• A shallow lid, baking tray or shoebox to hold the paper

How to do it

1. Place a sheet of paper inside the lid or tray.
2. Drop small amounts of paint and a few marbles onto the paper.
3. Tilt and roll the container so the marbles travel through the paint, leaving trails.
4. Add new colours and keep rolling until the child is happy with their design.

Curriculum links

MTOP

• 4.2 Children and young people develop a range of learning and thinking skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating
• 5.3 Children and young people collaborate with others, express ideas and make meaning using a range of digital technologies and media and communication technologies
• 1.2 Children and young people develop their autonomy, interdependence, resilience and agency

NQS

• 1.2.3 Child directed learning - Each child's agency is promoted, enabling them to make choices and decisions that influence events and their world.

Frequently asked questions

What NQF outcomes does Marble Painting support?

Marble Painting is mapped to MTOP 4.2, MTOP 5.3, MTOP 1.2, NQS 1.2.3. Each framework link is quoted in full on this page.

What age group is Marble Painting for?

This activity suits ages 5–10.

What do I need for Marble Painting?

You will need Paper, Paint, 3-4 marbles and A shallow lid, baking tray or shoebox to hold the paper.

How long does Marble Painting take?

Allow about 20 min.