Lesson Plan: Exploring Line, Organic & Geometric Shapes in Art
Grade Level: 7
Duration: 30 minutes
Subject: Art
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Identify and differentiate between organic and geometric shapes.
- Utilize lines to create both organic and geometric shapes in their drawings.
- Create an observational drawing that includes both types of shapes.
Materials Needed
- Sketch paper
- Pencils
- Erasers
- Rulers
- A variety of objects for observational drawing (e.g., leaves, geometric models, fruit)
Standards
- Students will demonstrate the ability to express ideas through the use of various art elements. (National Core Arts Standards - Creating: CR1.1.7a)
- Students will engage in the practice of observation to develop their observational drawing skills. (National Core Arts Standards - Responding: RE9.1.7a)
Lesson Outline
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of shapes in art. Ask students to define what they think organic and geometric shapes are.
- Show examples of both shapes, either through images or physical objects. Explain the characteristics of organic shapes (irregular, natural forms) versus geometric shapes (regular, man-made forms).
Instruction (10 minutes)
-
Lines: Explain how lines can be used to create both organic and geometric shapes. Demonstrate with simple sketches on the whiteboard.
- Example of an organic shape: Draw a wavy line to form a leaf.
- Example of a geometric shape: Use a ruler to draw a square or triangle.
-
Demonstration: Show the students how to combine both organic and geometric shapes in a single composition. For instance, sketch a combination of a geometric backdrop (like a square) with organic elements (like flowing lines representing water or trees).
Guided Practice (10 minutes)
- Hand out materials and ask students to select one object from their table for observational drawing.
- Instruct them to first outline the object using only lines, focusing on both the organic and geometric shapes they see.
- Encourage students to pay attention to the contours and forms, gently reminding them to start light so they can erase any mistakes.
Independent Practice (5 minutes)
- Allow students to enhance their sketches by adding details, textures, or any additional shapes they see in the object.
- Circulate the room to provide feedback, encouragement, and additional instruction as needed.
Closure (5 minutes)
- Invite a few students to share their drawings with the class.
- Provide positive reinforcement and highlight the unique ways they combined organic and geometric shapes.
- Summarize the key concepts learned in the lesson and discuss how these techniques can be applied in future art projects.
Assessment
- Evaluate students' observational drawings on:
- Inclusion of both organic and geometric shapes.
- Creativity and use of lines.
- Overall effort and engagement during the lesson.
Extensions
- For students who finish early, invite them to create a small series of drawings focusing on one shape at a time or to experiment with different line styles (dashed, dotted, etc.).
- Discuss how these shapes might be used in different art forms, such as sculpture, painting, or digital art.
This lesson plan encourages students to explore and create, building upon their understanding of lines and shapes in a hands-on and engaging manner.