Making Marks Outdoors
To develop early mark-making skills in large-scale outdoor contexts.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Makes large-scale marks with control
- Uses different tools confidently
- Talks about own marks
- Shows enjoyment of mark-making
Materials
- Chunky chalks
- Large water brushes
- Paint rollers with trays
- Long rolls of paper for outdoor mark-making
Instructions
Set up the outdoor area with multiple mark-making stations: chalk on the ground/fence, water brushes on the tarmac (marks disappear magically), paint rollers with thick poster paint on long paper rolls taped to the fence.
Demonstrate large-scale arm movements: 'Watch me! Big circles — round and round and round! Big lines — all the way across! Zigzag — zig — zag — zig — zag!' Use your whole arm and body enthusiastically.
Make marks alongside children rather than directing. Show genuine joy in the process: 'I'm making a HUGE circle! It took up my whole arm! What are you making?'
Respond to marks with interest and specific observation: 'You made lots of short marks. And then some long ones. I can see you changed direction here — why?' Your curiosity about their process is enormously motivating.
Connect marks to writing gradually: 'That long line looks a bit like the letter I, which is in your name, Ibrahim! I is a tall straight line like this one.' Never force the connection — offer it lightly.
As children become more confident, introduce simple purposeful mark-making: 'Can you draw me a map of the outdoor area? Show me where the sandpit is.' This gives marks meaning and purpose beyond pure exploration.