Looking for a drawing lesson that keeps students engaged while building real skills? This Fractured Landscapes project is a classroom favorite that helps middle and high school students explore line variety, depth, composition, and creative transformation in a clear, structured way.
In this week-long lesson, students start by sketching a landscape from reference. They then divide their drawing into sections and redraw each area using different line styles, patterns, and mark-making techniques. As they work, students discover how one image can be transformed through repetition, variation, and thoughtful design choices.
This project is highly successful with a wide range of learners because it provides clear steps, encourages creativity, and builds confidence—even for students who struggle with drawing.
Everything you need to teach the lesson with minimal prep:
5-page detailed lesson plan aligned with National Visual Arts Standards
Includes objectives, timeline, vocabulary, assessment criteria, and differentiation ideas.
21-page step-by-step presentation with real classroom photos of the process
Full video demonstration of the lesson
20 landscape reference sketches ready to print
Thumbnail planning worksheets
“How to Create Space” informational sheet
Student self-evaluation and reflection form
Creating depth and space in drawings
Using line variety and expressive mark-making
Understanding composition and unity
Creative problem-solving
Artistic risk-taking and confidence building
✔ Clear, structured steps make it easy to teach
✔ Works well for mixed skill levels
✔ Keeps students focused and engaged
✔ Encourages creativity without overwhelming students
✔ Produces unique, display-worthy artwork
This lesson is perfect when you want a project that balances strong skill development with creative freedom, helping students see how their artistic choices can transform a simple drawing into something truly original.
© A Space to Create Art™