MAKING A SKETCHBOOK – Connecting With The Art World

Students will be able to:

1. Use careful measuring to construct a simple sketchbook;
2. Create a design using a variety of drawing tools and many different kinds of lines;
3. Make connections among a professional artwork and their own work; and
4. Support their ideas with evidence found in the works.

1. Use the sketchbook for planning future artworks, and experimenting with ideas. Encourage students to use it as a ‘data gathering tool’.
2. Allow students to decorate and personalize the cover of their book choosing from a variety of media and techniques. (For example, Quilt Book printmaking technique)
   Quilt Book

1. Organize the sketchbook materials into kits for easy distribution.
   - 2 pieces of corrugated cardboard
   - 8-10 pieces of drawing paper
   - one piece of coloured construction paper
    - a paper fastener
2. Download some pictures of artist sketchbooks from the internet, and/or find examples in books.
   Sketchbooks
3. Gather a selection of art post cards, or similar small pictures of a variety of artworks.

1. Show students some examples of artist sketchbooks and let them know how these books are used.
   - Artists use sketchbooks to plan artworks, and to experiment with lots of ideas. The work you do in your sketchbook shows your thinking. The sketchbook is a place to try out ideas and not worry about them being perfect. They are really workbooks for figuring out ideas.  Notice how you can see the lines that were not right in the drawing, and then a new line drawn. You don’t have to erase marks at all. Just let your ideas flow. Your drawings show your thinking.
2. Show them a completed sketchbook and demonstrate how to make it.
3. Introduce the challenge

1. When all designs are mostly complete place a variety of art postcards on the tables. Ask students to stop.
   - I’ve placed some art cards on your table. Take a moment to look at them all and then when you’re ready choose one that speaks to you for some reason.
   - Think of 5 words that come to mind when you look at the art on your card.
   - Share the reason you chose the card and your 5 words. When you are saying each word, point to the area in the picture that makes you think of that word.
   - Place your art card beside your line design.
   - Find 3 ways your design is like the art on the card.
   - Share your ideas with the group.
   - What did you notice when we did this activity?

1. Observe students as they work  – thoughtful focus, discriminating, seeking more information, elaborating, experimenting
2. Observe students as they discuss the art works – active listening, insightful contributions, supporting ideas with evidence found in the artwork and from personal experience.