← PORTRAIT PRACTICE

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GRADES 3–5 · Expressions · Simple Portraits

Show a Surprised Face: Use Fewer Lines

Name ____________________ Date __________

WHAT YOU WILL MAKE

Create a detailed first study and a simplified version with five to ten main marks, focusing on show a surprised face. Use the subject steps as practice before making this final pair or set.

Shared feature reference for Expressions
Shared feature reference. It may not show this task’s exact pose, accessory, or style. Use the teacher’s matching reference too.

Draw it step by step

Change feature shapes while keeping the same character. Translate the observed feature into a clear, simplified drawing. Keep its identifying shape while reducing detail.

  1. Look at the reference and choose three important curves, angles, or shapes. Make a tiny plan using only those.
  2. Draw a familiar face lightly.
  3. Lift the brows and change the eye and mouth openings.
  4. Make a small-surprise and big-surprise version without changing the head shape.
  5. Make a second version with fewer marks. Remove texture and small shadows; keep the outline changes that communicate the form.

Watch out → Try this

Common drawing problem: Adding small details before the main shapes and placement are clear.

Repair: Return to the first subject step: Draw a familiar face lightly. Compare the biggest shapes before refining.

Check your work: Does it still look like the same person? Can someone identify the feature in the simpler version? Explain which marks you kept.

Materials: pencil, eraser, paper, and a mirror or teacher-approved reference. Optional black drawing pen; no painting required.

Show a Surprised Face: Use Fewer Lines · Practice page

Name ____________________ Make light trials first. Divide a box further if your task needs extra versions.

1 · Observe and plan
2 · First drawing
3 · Change one choice
4 · Independent application

My evidence: Does it still look like the same person? Can someone identify the feature in the simpler version? Explain which marks you kept.

I changed __________________ because I noticed __________________.

My next practice goal: __________________________________________________