- Definition
Contrast is when you put very different things next to each other, like a bright color next to a dark one, to make them stand out or create an interesting look.
Placing a bright yellow sun in a dark blue sky creates strong contrast and makes the sun stand out.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Contrast is like putting a bright yellow toy on a dark blue rug to make the toy really pop.
Ask your child: What part of this picture looks extra bright next to the dark part?
Common mix-up: Kids might think contrast is only about different colours. Contrast can also be about putting rough next to smooth, or big next to small.
Examples
- Using a black crayon to draw on white paper.
- Pasting a rough piece of sandpaper next to a smooth, shiny piece of foil in a collage.
- Drawing a tiny boat on a very large sea.
contrast is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
+12 more mentions across the curriculum
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
