Self-Portrait Gallery

Week 1 Activity - Detailed Instructions

Learning Objectives

Students will observe and describe their physical characteristics
Students will use art materials to create a self-representation
Students will develop fine motor skills through drawing and coloring

Materials Needed

Hand mirrors (one per child)
White drawing paper (8.5x11)
Crayons or colored pencils
Picture frames or construction paper frames
Chart paper for gallery labels

Preparation Steps

1Set up mirrors at each workspace
2Prepare drawing materials at each seat
3Create a designated wall space for the gallery
4Prepare name labels for each portrait

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin with a circle time discussion about what makes each person unique

Give each child a mirror and ask them to look carefully at themselves

Guide students to notice details: eye color, hair color, smile, etc.

Demonstrate how to start with basic shapes (circle for head, etc.)

Allow 20-25 minutes for drawing and coloring

Help students add details like clothing, accessories, or favorite colors

Have students write or dictate one thing that makes them special

Create a classroom gallery with all portraits displayed

Assessment

Observe students' ability to identify their own characteristics
Note fine motor skill development in drawing
Listen to students' descriptions of what makes them unique
Document participation in gallery sharing time

Teaching Tips

Encourage students to look in the mirror frequently while drawing
Remind students that everyone's portrait will look different and that's wonderful
Take photos of students with their completed portraits
Consider sending portraits home as a special keepsake

Extension Activities

Additional ways to extend and enrich this learning experience

1
Create a class book with all self-portraits and descriptions
2
Have students draw portraits of family members
3
Compare portraits made at the beginning and end of the year
4
Use portraits for name recognition and attendance activities

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Art Activity

45 minutes

Individual work, whole group sharing