This Art and design scheme of work video supports teachers in introducing observational drawing, to help children develop the foundational skill of seeing like an artist.

Before drawing, children must learn how to look. Observation plays a crucial role in understanding form and shape. When pupils create representational drawings, they’re being asked to focus on what they truly see—not just what they think is there. Most children begin by outlining with lines, often focusing on the edges of objects. While this is valid, it can be slow and less accurate. This lesson introduces an alternative approach: identifying and sketching simple shapes as the building blocks of what they see.

Pupils practise light sketching using the side of their pencil to outline basic shapes. There’s no need for detail yet—this is a planning stage. Repeat observation is encouraged throughout, and children are reminded to keep looking up as they draw.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 3 Developing drawing skills unit. It equips pupils with strategies to observe and draw with confidence.

See more of our Year 3 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 3, *Updated* Drawing: Developing drawing skills, Lesson 1: See like an artist.