This Art and Design scheme of work video encourages children to look closely at their subject, noticing the shape, size and details of the trunk and branches. Pupils are guided to begin with a light outline, thinking about the size and placement on the page. They’ll then sketch the large branches, looking at how they taper from the trunk, before adding the finer branches using continuous lines to create a more realistic shape.

The video reminds pupils to include roots and ground details so their tree doesn’t appear to be floating, and models how to make decisions about light and shade. Whether working outside or from a photograph, pupils are encouraged to consider where shadows might fall and how shading can add depth and realism.

Finally, pupils add detail using softer pencils to show bark texture and small features like leaves or twigs. This lesson builds children’s confidence in observational drawing and develops their ability to look closely and work carefully from what they can see.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Upper key stage 2 Formal elements: Architecture unit.

See more of our Upper key stage 2 Art and Design scheme of work.

Art and Design, Upper key stage 2, Formal elements: Architecture, Lesson 1: Observation drawing – Option 2: Christmas themed.