Observational Drawing: Shell Study Using Chalk and Charcoal

This lesson is designed for KS3 / Year 7 students and focuses on developing observational drawing skills using chalk and charcoal. Through the study of shells, pupils learn how to observe an object carefully and use drawing media effectively to show tone, texture, shape and form.

Students are introduced to the properties of chalk and charcoal and explore how these materials can be used to create light and dark tones, soft blending and strong contrasts. The lesson encourages experimentation with mark-making while developing control and confidence when working with dry media.

Structured tasks guide pupils to practise key elements of art, including line, tone, texture and form, with a focus on building tonal depth and surface detail. The lesson supports all abilities and includes opportunities for challenge, such as refining tonal transitions and improving accuracy through observation.

This resource works well as a standalone KS3 skills lesson or as part of a natural forms or drawing foundations project, helping to prepare students for more advanced observational work later in the course.

Skills developed:

Observational drawing from a real object

Using chalk and charcoal effectively

Exploring tone, texture and contrast

Developing control and confidence with drawing media

Understanding key elements of art