This Art and Design scheme of work video supports teachers in guiding pupils to draw from observation. Pupils will develop their ability to look closely at real-life details and represent them with accuracy.

The video encourages drawing outside where possible, but provides alternative options if this is not possible.

Pupils often draw what they think they see, rather than what’s actually there. This lesson focuses on looking carefully and thinking about what to draw first, how big it will be, and where it will sit on the page. This is known as composition. Children begin by lightly sketching the basic outline of the house, and then taking a moment to evaluate the drawing. They then add key features like windows and doors, measuring them by comparing shapes and spaces, and ensuring that the proportion is correct. Pupils will then continue to add small details.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 5 Architecture unit. It supports pupils to become more confident and accurate in their drawing abilities.

See more of our Year 5 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 5, Craft and design: Architecture, Lesson 1: Observational drawing – houses.