Observational Drawing: Nature
To develop observational skills and detailed drawing through looking closely at natural objects.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Expressive Arts & Design
- Learning area: Expressive Arts and Design
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Looks carefully before drawing
- Includes observed details
- Adjusts drawing based on continued looking
- Discusses observational process
Materials
- Natural objects: flowers, shells, feathers, leaves, pinecones
- Fine drawing tools (fine felt tips, pencils)
- Magnifying glasses
- Plain white paper
Instructions
Set up a drawing observation station with one or two natural objects per child — a flower in a small vase, a shell on a table, a leaf next to paper. Place a magnifying glass nearby.
Before drawing begins: 'Before we draw, let's really LOOK. Look through the magnifying glass — what can you see? Tell me everything!' This slow, careful looking before drawing transforms the quality of observational work.
Model observational approach: 'I'm going to draw this shell. I'm going to look at it really carefully, then put what I see on the paper. I notice it's curved... and it has ridges... and it's wider at one end than the other. I'll try to show all those things.'
Encourage children to touch objects before drawing: 'Feel the bumps on the pinecone before you draw them. Can you feel how they spiral round?' Tactile experience enhances visual observation.
Accept all drawing as valuable — the child who draws a simple oval for a shell is doing genuine observational drawing. Resist the urge to 'correct' drawings to look more representational.
Discuss completed drawings: 'Tell me about your drawing. What did you decide to put in? What was hard to draw? What does the real flower have that you couldn't quite get on the paper?' This reflective discussion develops artistic thinking.