← PORTRAIT PRACTICE

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GRADES 3–5 · Proportion · Realistic Observation

The Back of the Skull: Look and Compare

Name ____________________ Date __________

WHAT YOU WILL MAKE

Make two observed studies with one corrected relationship. Focus on the back of the skull.

Shared feature reference for Proportion
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

Include the mass behind the ear.

  1. Use one mirror view or teacher-approved reference. Make the first drawing lightly and compare width, height, and angle.
  2. Sketch a side-view head mass.
  3. Place the ear within that mass.
  4. Add the face profile and compare front and back distances.
  5. Circle a mismatch in the first study. Make a second study correcting that one relationship before adding detail.

Watch out → Try this

Common drawing problem: A flat back of the head

Repair: Restore the skull volume behind the ear.

Check your work: What became closer to the reference, and how can you tell?

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

The Back of the Skull: Look and Compare · Practice page

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

1 · Warm-up: The Back of the Skull
2 · First plan
3 · Revise one choice
4 · Independent application

My evidence: What became closer to the reference, and how can you tell?

I changed __________________ because I noticed __________________.

My next practice goal: __________________________________________________