Grade 10 Visual Arts is an immersive subject that combines creative practical work with a theoretical understanding of art history and visual literacy. The curriculum focuses on developing drawing skills, conceptualizing artworks, and exploring diverse art movements from ancient civilizations to contemporary South African art. To ensure you stay on track with your studies and practical projects, it is essential to consult the full Grade 10 Annual Teaching Plans (ATPs).
This article outlines the 2026 Visual Arts Grade 10 ATP, breaking down the weekly focus areas for teachers and learners, from the initial Visual Analysis in Term 1 to the final End-of-Year Examinations.
Download ATP Here in pdf format
Download ATP HereVisual Arts Grade 10 ATP 2026
The Annual Teaching Plan is divided into four terms, ensuring comprehensive coverage of practical skills (drawing, painting, sculpture, etc.) and art theory (visual analysis, history, and literacy).
Download: Visual Arts Grade 10 ATP 2026 PDF
Term 1: Visual Analysis, Drawing, and Conceptualisation
Focus: The first term lays the foundation for visual literacy and practical skills. Learners explore the elements of art and design while starting their practical sourcebook work.
- Weeks 1–11: Practical (Topic 1 & 2) and Theory (Topic 3)
- Theory: Visual analysis and interpretation. Understanding art elements (line, shape, form, colour, texture, space) and principles of design.
- Theme 1 (Compulsory): Visual analysis and interpretation of specific artworks.
- Practical: Focus on drawing skills using various media (pencil, charcoal, ink) and techniques (hatching, stippling, tonal value).
- Conceptualisation: Starting the sourcebook (visual diary) for the first major artwork, focusing on experimentation and idea generation.
- Assessment:
- Task 1: Theory Test (Visual Literacy) – Minimum 50 marks.
- Task 2: Conceptualisation Sourcebook (Topic 1) – 100 marks.
Term 2: Art History Themes and Practical Development
Focus: The second term delves into specific art history themes (chosen by the school) and continues the development of practical artworks.
- Weeks 1–11: Practical (Topic 1 & 2) and Theory (Topic 3)
- Theory Themes: Schools choose a minimum of 4 themes from the following list to cover throughout the year:
- African Art (Pre-colonial, San Rock Art, etc.) * Non-Western Cultures (Egypt, India, China, etc.)
- Ancient Civilisations (Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome)
- Classical World (Greek and Roman Art) * Middle Ages / Islamic Art
- Renaissance (Early, High, Northern) * Baroque and Rococo
- Practical: Introduction to a specialised practical option (e.g., painting, sculpture, printmaking). Continued work on the sourcebook and the creation of Artwork 1.
- Theory Themes: Schools choose a minimum of 4 themes from the following list to cover throughout the year:
- Assessment:
- Task 3: Mid-Year Theory Examination – Minimum 50 marks.
- Task 4: Conceptualisation Sourcebook (Topic 1) – 100 marks.
- PAT (Practical Assessment Task): Ongoing assessment of Artwork 1.
Term 3: Advanced Art History and PAT Retrospective
Focus: Term 3 explores more complex art movements and focuses on the “Retrospective Exhibition” component of the PAT.
- Weeks 1–11: Practical (Topic 1 & 2) and Theory (Topic 3)
- Theory: Continuation of chosen themes (e.g., Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo). Understanding style, meaning, and context.
- Practical: Completion of Artwork 2. Learners are encouraged to develop a cohesive body of work.
- PAT: Preparation for the Retrospective Exhibition. This involves curating and presenting the year’s practical work (Artworks 1 & 2 and sourcebooks) in an exhibition format.
- Assessment:
- Task 5: Theory Test – Minimum 50 marks.
- Task 6 (PAT): Retrospective Exhibition – 100 marks.
Term 4: Revision and Final Examinations
Focus: The final term is dedicated to comprehensive revision for the written theory exam and the final practical examination. For additional practice materials, visit our Grade 10 Past Papers section.
- Weeks 1–5: Revision
- Theory: Revision of all themes covered (Visual Analysis + 4 chosen themes).
- Practical: Final touches to practical work if needed.
- Assessment: End-of-Year Examinations
- Paper 1 (Written – 100 marks): Visual literacy and art history questions covering the compulsory theme and the 4 chosen themes.
- Paper 2 (Practical – 100 marks): Creation of a final artwork within a set time (e.g., 6–24 hours) based on a specific theme or brief.
FAQ: Visual Arts Grade 10
Q: What is the Sourcebook?
A: The sourcebook (visual diary) is where you document your creative process. It contains sketches, mind maps, experiments with media, research on artists, and your final concept development. It is assessed as part of your practical mark.
Q: Do I have to be good at drawing?
A: Drawing is a fundamental skill in Visual Arts, but the subject also values creativity, conceptual thinking, and experimentation. You will learn various drawing techniques to improve your skills.
Q: What is the PAT in Visual Arts?
A: The PAT (Practical Assessment Task) is your year-long practical portfolio. It includes your sourcebook work and the final artworks you create. In Grade 10, it culminates in a Retrospective Exhibition of your work.