Practicing Value and Observational Drawings With Lego Blocks

Observational drawings showcasing Lego Blocks with values.

In this post I will be showcasing a great technique to get students to think about value and practice observational drawing techniques. Previous to assigning the project I spent some time gathering the materials which in this case turned out to be Lego blocks. I found that the project becomes more relatable by using an object that all students are familiar with. Before assigning the project I spent some time arranging the Lego Blocks into arrangements of different compositions. Below you will find a step-by-step guide to realizing this great project.

Observational drawings showcasing Lego Blocks with values.

1.I had each student pick a Lego Block composition and take a sheet of paper.
2. The students then divided their sheet of paper into 4 quadrants. On each quadrant they wrote one of the following, side 1-side 4.
3. For about 2/3 class periods(60 min) the students focused on observational drawings of the Lego
Blocks. The drawings each correlated with a specific side of the Lego Block chosen by the students.
4. The last class period was focused on using color pencils to showcase the values of the Lego Blocks. Below you will find some completed works.

Textured landscape drawings

Pumpkin patch, textured landscape drawing by one of my middle school students.

      During the first grading period of school I focus on basic concepts that the students will need throughout the year. A huge chunk of this time is used to explore certain elements of art that the students might need extended comprehension on.  One of the projects that I enjoy doing is textured landscape drawings. I find that this project helps students understand the element of art that is texture. In addition, the students also have the possibility to explore the other elements such as color, value, shape, line and space. Below you will find a simple step-by-step for this fun activity. I found that it took about 2 class times to complete (each class time is about 105 min).

Spring time, textured landscape drawing by one of my middle school students.

Step 1

I start off by handing the students a blank paper and ask them to place their names on the top right. I have them turn it over to the blank side and in a landscape orientation. We then commence the step-by-step drawing instructions that I do on the board.

Step 2

I explain the directions and have them follow along almost in a 'Simon says' type of way. I call it 'Simon draws', this way the students know to do something similar to what I have drawn on the board.

Step 3 

The drawing usually involves the following 'Simon draws' directions.

1. I usually have them draw a wavy line right below the middle of the paper.

2. Proceed to draw another, less wavy line below the previous one.

3. Add 2 funny looking capital W's on each side. 

4. Contribute a square/rectangle next to each capital W.

5. For the final instructions I have the students convert the capital W's into trees by adding leaves to the top. The squares/rectangles get triangles added to the top and are then converted into houses.

 Step 4

After the simple 5 directions are completed, I have the students add windows, doors and textures to the roofs of the houses. In addition I have them create different textures throughout the whole landscape by having them think of lines, shapes and visuals that might enhance and help them create a unique textured landscape.

Step 5

Once all the drawing work is completed, the students are then welcomed to color in with color pencils, markers and crayons.

Out on the country field, textured landscape drawing by one of my middle school students.

Great Outdoors, textured landscape drawing by one of my middle school students.