Fifth Grade Art Lesson 20

Presidential Portraits, Part 2 Completing the Backgrounds

Objective:

The student will complete their presidential portraits by planning and executing a unique background design.

Materials:

Last week's work, colored pencils or markers

Procedure:

Today we are going to complete our presidential portraits. Before you begin work on the background, double check your portrait for value, texture, and accuracy. Do not begin a plan directly on your portrait. Rather, work out several different ideas on scrap paper. Many fifth grade students put American flags behind their president. I encourage you to come up with a unique design. Certainly working with patriotic colors is appropriate. Work to find your own design to complement the president you have just drawn. Do not assume that your first plan is your best. Pursue several ideas before making your final decision. Once you feel confident about the most impressive design, draw it behind your president. Do not scribble; control your tools.

Conclusion:

We have just completed a lesson on symmetry, value, texture, and background design. Share your presidential portraits with one another. If you wish to further your knowledge of the president, research their personal as well as political history. Write your findings on the back of your drawings, along with one famous quote from your president.

Artwork and Examples used in this lesson

Student Artwork

Student Artwork

Student Artwork