Core Skills Analysis
Art and Design
Lolli followed a step‑by‑step facial makeup tutorial and applied foundation, contour, eye shadow, and lipstick to create a complete look. She practiced precise brush control, colour blending, and composition, learning how different hues interact to highlight facial features. By interpreting visual instructions, Lolli developed visual literacy and an understanding of aesthetic choices. She also reflected on how makeup can be used as a medium for personal expression.
Science (Human Biology)
While applying makeup, Lolli examined the skin’s texture and learned how different products interact with the epidermis and sebaceous glands. She recognized that some ingredients can moisturise while others may block pores, linking product choice to skin health. This activity helped her understand the biological function of skin as a protective barrier and the importance of hygiene when using cosmetics. Lolli also noted the sensory feedback (feel, temperature) that guided her technique.
Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE)
Lolli explored personal identity through the makeup tutorial, considering how colour, style, and presentation influence self‑confidence and social perception. She discussed safety practices, such as sanitising brushes and testing for allergic reactions, reinforcing responsible personal care. The activity encouraged her to think about cultural norms around beauty and how personal grooming can affect mental wellbeing. Lolli expressed pride in mastering a new skill and recognised the role of makeup in self‑expression.
English (Comprehension & Communication)
Lolli read and interpreted written and video instructions in the tutorial, extracting key steps and sequencing them correctly. She summarised the process in her own words while explaining each stage to a family member, strengthening oral communication. By following technical vocabulary (e.g., "blend", "layer", "fade"), Lolli expanded her academic language related to art and cosmetics. She also evaluated the tutorial’s clarity, providing feedback on what could be improved.
Tips
To deepen Lolli’s learning, try a colour theory experiment by mixing primary makeup shades to create secondary tones, then record the results in a visual journal. Invite her to design a makeup look inspired by a historical era, researching the fashion and cultural context before applying the style. Organise a safe, peer‑review session where classmates present their looks and discuss the science of skin care, fostering collaborative critique. Finally, have Lolli write a short reflective blog post describing how the process made her feel and what she would change next time.
Book Recommendations
- The Art of Makeup by Katie Jane Hughes: A beginner‑friendly guide that explains colour theory, tools, and techniques, perfect for young creators like Lolli.
- Skin: A Natural History by Katherine R. Miller: Explores the biology of skin, its functions, and how everyday products affect it, linking science to personal care.
- The Girl Who Loved Books Too Much by Emily Henry: While not about makeup, this novel celebrates self‑expression and identity, encouraging readers to explore who they are.
Learning Standards
- Art and Design – National Curriculum Key Stage 3: Use a range of media, techniques and processes to develop ideas and create artworks (NC Art 3.1).
- Science – Key Stage 2/3: Understand the structure and function of the skin as an organ (NC Science 2.2, 3.2).
- PSHE – National Curriculum: Develop knowledge of personal health, safety and wellbeing, including safe use of cosmetics (NC PSHE 3.1).
- English – Key Stage 3: Read, understand and respond to non‑fiction texts, using appropriate terminology (NC English 3.1).
Try This Next
- Worksheet: Colour‑mixing chart for foundation, blush, and eye shadow with hex codes to track created shades.
- Quiz: 10 multiple‑choice questions on skin anatomy, product safety, and makeup terminology.
- Drawing task: Sketch a before‑and‑after portrait labeling each product and technique used.
- Writing prompt: "If my makeup could talk, what would it say about my personality?"