Watch the full video
Introducing observational drawings
This Art and Design scheme of work video supports teachers in guiding pupils through drawing trees from observation, a process that encourages close looking, decision-making, and careful sketching. Whether drawing outside or from a photograph, the video helps teachers prompt pupils to see and record the details of their subject.
Teachers are shown how to support pupils in planning their drawing composition, from thinking about size and placement to sketching the trunk and gradually adding realistic branches. The video offers practical tips on teaching branching structures, emphasising how to show natural tapering using continuous lines rather than separate segments.
Guidance is also given for showing where the tree meets the ground, and how to add detail like roots, shadows, and bark texture. Teachers are encouraged to help pupils observe the way light falls on the tree, making tonal choices to create depth even when reference images lack clear shadows.
This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Craft and design: Architecture unit.
See more of our Year 5 and Year 6 Art and Design scheme of work.
