← PORTRAIT PRACTICE

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GRADES 3–5 · Whole Portraits · Simple Portraits

Draw Yourself: 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 draw yourself. Use the subject steps as practice before making this final pair or set.

Shared feature reference for Whole Portraits
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

Observation and design choices can both tell a viewer something about you. 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. Study your face in a mirror and note three features you want to include.
  3. Plan the head and shoulders before adding those features.
  4. Compare the drawing with your reflection and adjust one placement.
  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: Study your face in a mirror and note three features you want to include. Compare the biggest shapes before refining.

Check your work: Which three choices make this portrait yours? 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.

Draw Yourself: 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: Which three choices make this portrait yours? Can someone identify the feature in the simpler version? Explain which marks you kept.

I changed __________________ because I noticed __________________.

My next practice goal: __________________________________________________