This Art and design scheme of work video introduces a drawing lesson designed to build children’s confidence and enjoyment in art, no matter their perceived ability. The focus is on drawing for pleasure and developing the imagination by choosing a personally meaningful image to recreate.

Before the lesson, children are encouraged to think of something they’d like to draw and, if possible, bring in an illustration of it. These images serve as a starting point for exploring the drawing process.

The video demonstrates how to break images down into simple shapes—circles, rectangles, ovals, triangles—to help children understand that any drawing can be built up step by step. By using techniques like tracing over an image placed in a plastic wallet and sketching lightly with pencil, children can plan their drawing and gain confidence in their ability.

Pupils are reminded that this isn’t about creating an exact copy—it’s about their version of the picture. The emphasis is on exploration, making mistakes, adapting and enjoying the creative process. A wide range of materials can be provided for the drawings, such as coloured pencils, felt tips or pastels.

To build children’s ability to reflect and improve, the lesson also includes opportunities for peer feedback. Children compare their drawings to the original and offer supportive comments on what is similar and how the work could be developed—just like a real artist.

This lesson is part of Kapow Primary’s original Year 2 Art and design skills unit.

See more of our original Key Stage 1 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Key stage 1, Art and design skills, Lesson 6: Learning about… Drawing for fun.