New Revised NERDC Primary 4 Cultural and Creative Arts Scheme of Work

The New Revised NERDC Primary 4 Cultural and Creative Arts Scheme of Work provides a structured framework for teaching creative subjects in Nigerian primary schools.
This scheme of work was developed by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) in September 2025 as part of the Nigerian Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI). It addresses learning poverty and equips students with skills needed for the 21st century.
The scheme of work focuses on three main areas: Arts and Crafts, Performing Arts and Entertainment, and Customs and Traditions. These areas help students develop creativity, cultural awareness, and practical skills. Teachers use this scheme of work to plan lessons that engage students through drawing, music, drama, and dance activities.
This framework replaces the old curriculum with a more practical approach. It reduces content overload while covering essential topics across three terms. The scheme of work ensures that students learn through hands-on activities rather than just memorizing facts.
Each term in the scheme of work builds on previous knowledge. First term introduces basic concepts like the meaning of arts and music. Second term deepens understanding through design principles and musical instruments. Third term focuses on advanced skills like print making and instrument classification.
The scheme of work aligns with national education goals and international standards. It prepares students for meaningful living while preserving Nigerian cultural values. Teachers can use this scheme of work confidently to deliver quality education in Cultural and Creative Arts.
Table of Contents
Why the Primary 4 Cultural and Creative Arts Scheme of Work is Important
Teachers need a clear scheme of work to organize lessons effectively throughout the academic year. This Primary 4 Cultural and Creative Arts scheme of work provides weekly topics, performance objectives, and teaching activities that guide instruction. Without a proper scheme of work, teachers might skip important topics or spend too much time on less critical areas.
The scheme of work helps teachers balance theory with practical activities. Cultural and Creative Arts requires hands-on learning where students draw, perform, and create.
This scheme of work lists specific activities like role-playing, instrument playing, and dance performances that make learning engaging. Teachers can see exactly what materials they need and how to use them.
Assessment becomes easier when following this scheme of work. Each week includes clear performance objectives that show what students should achieve. Teachers can measure progress by checking if students meet these objectives. The scheme of work also schedules revision weeks and examinations to ensure proper evaluation.
Using this scheme of work ensures that all Primary 4 students across Nigeria learn the same content. This standardization helps when students transfer between schools.
The scheme of work meets NERDC requirements, so teachers can trust they are teaching the approved curriculum. It saves preparation time and gives teachers confidence in their lesson delivery.
General Objectives of the Primary 4 Cultural and Creative Arts Scheme of Work
The general objectives of this scheme of work are:
i. Develop students’ creativity and artistic expression through visual and performing arts
ii. Build understanding of Nigerian cultural heritage and traditions
iii. Enhance fine and gross motor skills through practical activities
iv. Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
v. Promote emotional intelligence and social values
vi. Develop auditory and visual discrimination skills
vii. Encourage teamwork, collaboration, and communication
viii. Build confidence in self-expression and performance
ix. Instill environmental awareness and responsibility
x. Prepare students for lifelong learning and cultural appreciation
These objectives shape how teachers deliver the Primary 4 Cultural and Creative Arts scheme of work. Each objective addresses specific skills students need for personal and academic growth. The objectives emphasize practical application rather than passive learning.
The scheme of work aligns all weekly topics with these general objectives. For example, topics on Nigerian musical instruments help students appreciate cultural heritage while developing auditory skills. Drama activities build communication and teamwork. These connections ensure the scheme of work delivers meaningful learning outcomes that prepare students for future academic levels and life beyond school.
Overview of Primary 4 Cultural and Creative Arts Scheme of Work Content Coverage
| Theme | Topics Covered | Learning Outcomes | Term Distribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arts and Crafts | Meaning/origin/uses of arts, classification of art, Nigerian art works, elements of design, principles of design, types of colors and texture, print making, types of drawing, modeling with paper mache | Students explain art concepts, classify art works, create designs using elements and principles, produce prints and models, demonstrate drawing skills | First Term (Weeks 1, 5), Second Term (Weeks 1, 5, 9), Third Term (Weeks 1, 3, 10) |
| Performing Arts and Entertainment | Definition of music/drama/dance, Nigerian musical instruments, foreign musical instruments, classification of instruments, elements of drama, basic movements in dance, songs with Nigerian identity, creating plays with themes | Students define performing arts, identify and play instruments, classify instruments by sound production, perform dances and dramas, create original performances | First Term (Weeks 2, 3, 4, 6, 8), Second Term (Weeks 2, 6, 8, 10, 11), Third Term (Weeks 2, 4, 5, 6, 8) |
| Customs and Traditions | Mode of greeting, care of environment, features of Nigerian traditional dance | Students demonstrate cultural greetings, analyze environmental care methods, identify and participate in traditional dances | First Term (Week 9), Second Term (Weeks 3, 4), Third Term (Week 9) |
The scheme of work covers content progressively across three terms with 13 weeks each. Each theme connects to specific learning outcomes that guide what students should know and do. The Arts and Crafts theme builds from basic concepts to advanced techniques like modeling and print making.
Performing Arts topics appear in all three terms, giving students continuous practice with music, drama, and dance. This repetition helps students master performance skills gradually.
Customs and Traditions topics reinforce cultural values and social responsibility throughout the year, ensuring students develop proper character alongside creative skills.
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