Drawing
Overview
Encouraging children to draw and to explain their drawings in the classroom, can support the development of Core Academic Literacies, especially when solving complex problems across content areas. Encouraging discussion around these drawings in the classroom is also important for social-emotional development, as these activities help learners express themselves in new and open-ended ways, supporting Communication skills and increasing Motivation. In addition, drawing activities can help learners regulate and support Emotional well-being, allowing them to reflect inward as a break or distraction from typical academic settings. Educators should take into account that learners who struggle with Sensory Integration or motor skills may find it difficult to modulate their pencil pressure and should consider how to adjust the medium accordingly. Artistic expression can support learners' Sense of Belonging in the classroom as these modalities help them to explore and demonstrate their individual interests to foster Identity development and communicate Emotion. This can be particularly important for students from historically and systematically excluded groups, or for students who may be dealing with Adverse Experiences.
Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom
Watch this video outlining the importance of drawing in secondary classrooms to solidify understanding.
Design It into Your Product
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
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