Freehand Sketching Techniques – Basic Technology JSS 1
Basic Technology JSS 1 Second Term Lesson Notes – Week 8
Freehand Sketching I
Subject: Basic Technology
Class: JSS 1
Term: Second Term
Week: 8
Age: 10 – 12 years
Duration: 40 minutes
Behavioral Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Define freehand sketching.
- Identify the importance of freehand sketching in technical drawing.
- Explain the techniques used in drawing lines, curves, circles, and irregular shapes.
- Demonstrate how to sketch different shapes without using drawing instruments.
- Apply freehand sketching techniques to create simple objects.
Keywords
- Freehand Sketching – Drawing without the use of drawing instruments.
- Contour – The outline or shape of an object.
- Proportion – The correct size relationship between different parts of a drawing.
- Hatching – A technique for shading using closely spaced lines.
- Cross-hatching – A shading technique using intersecting lines.
Set Induction (Entry Behavior)
- The teacher shows two sketches: one drawn with instruments and another drawn freehand.
- Students discuss which one looks more natural and expressive.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Drawing book or plain paper
- Pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
- Eraser
- Ruler (for comparison)
Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge
Students have learned about lettering and numerals in technical drawing. This lesson introduces them to sketching by hand, which helps in developing drawing skills before using instruments.
Embedded Core Skills
- Creativity – Ability to express ideas through sketches.
- Observation – Understanding shapes and proportions.
- Hand-eye Coordination – Practicing steady hand movements for drawing.
Lesson Content
1. Definition of Freehand Sketching
- Freehand sketching is the process of drawing without the aid of tools like rulers, compasses, or T-squares.
- It is used to quickly represent ideas and concepts before creating precise technical drawings.
2. Importance of Freehand Sketching
- Helps in quick visualization of ideas.
- Improves hand control and coordination.
- Aids communication of design ideas without needing instruments.
- Essential for architects, engineers, and designers.
3. Techniques for Freehand Sketching
To make freehand sketches look neat and clear, certain techniques should be followed:
a) Drawing Lines
- Use light strokes to outline the shape before darkening.
- Maintain steady hand movement.
- Draw different types of lines:
- Straight lines (horizontal, vertical, diagonal).
- Curved lines (smooth arcs and flowing shapes).
b) Sketching Curves
- Move your hand smoothly in a continuous motion.
- Avoid sharp breaks in the curve.
- Use guiding dots if needed.
c) Drawing Circles
- Start by sketching a light oval shape.
- Refine the shape until it becomes a proper circle.
- Use small guiding arcs to correct shape inconsistencies.
d) Drawing Irregular Shapes
- Observe the object carefully before sketching.
- Start with a rough outline.
- Gradually add details and refine the shape.
4. Tips for Improving Freehand Sketching
- Use a comfortable grip on the pencil.
- Keep your wrist relaxed while sketching.
- Practice drawing simple shapes repeatedly.
- Compare sketches with real objects for accuracy.
Evaluation (Fill in the Blanks with Multiple-Choice Options)
- _______ is the process of drawing without instruments.
a) Lettering
b) Freehand sketching
c) Measuring
d) Shading - Freehand sketching is important because it helps in _______.
a) Writing notes
b) Quick visualization of ideas
c) Making copies of textbooks
d) Coloring pictures - The best type of pencil for freehand sketching is _______.
a) HB or 2B
b) 6B
c) 8H
d) Red pencil - _______ is a technique used for shading in sketches.
a) Hatching
b) Rubbing
c) Erasing
d) Coloring - The best way to draw a straight line freehand is to _______.
a) Move the pencil slowly and steadily
b) Press the pencil very hard
c) Draw many rough lines quickly
d) Use a ruler - Freehand sketching improves _______.
a) Mathematical skills
b) Hand-eye coordination
c) Typing speed
d) Speaking ability - _______ is a method of shading by using crossed lines.
a) Cross-hatching
b) Contouring
c) Blurring
d) Outlining - When sketching a curve, it is important to _______.
a) Make short straight lines
b) Move your hand smoothly
c) Use a ruler
d) Press the pencil very hard - A freehand circle should start as a _______.
a) Square
b) Triangle
c) Rough oval shape
d) Shaded area - A good way to practice freehand sketching is to _______.
a) Draw regularly
b) Avoid drawing mistakes
c) Only use a ruler
d) Copy from a textbook
Class Activity Discussion (FAQs and Answers)
- What is freehand sketching?
- It is the process of drawing without using instruments.
- Why is freehand sketching important?
- It helps in quick visualization and improves hand control.
- What type of pencil is best for freehand sketching?
- HB or 2B pencils are commonly used.
- How can I draw a straight line without a ruler?
- By using steady hand movement and guiding dots.
- What are the common techniques used in freehand sketching?
- Hatching, cross-hatching, contouring, and shading.
- How do you sketch a circle freehand?
- Start with a rough oval shape and refine it gradually.
- What is hatching?
- A shading technique using closely spaced parallel lines.
- What is the difference between hatching and cross-hatching?
- Hatching uses single-direction lines, while cross-hatching uses intersecting lines.
- How can I improve my sketching skills?
- By practicing regularly and observing real objects.
- What is the best way to draw curves smoothly?
- By moving the hand in a continuous motion without stopping.
Presentation Structure
- Introduction: The teacher explains freehand sketching and its uses.
- Demonstration: The teacher sketches different lines, curves, and shapes.
- Student Practice: Students try sketching basic shapes.
- Guidance & Correction: The teacher checks students’ work and provides feedback.
- Recap & Questions: Students summarize what they learned.
Assessment (Short-Answer Questions)
- Define freehand sketching.
- Why is freehand sketching useful?
- Name three types of lines used in freehand sketching.
- How do you draw a straight line without a ruler?
- What is cross-hatching?
- Explain one technique for drawing a freehand curve.
- Mention two benefits of practicing freehand sketching.
- What is the best way to improve freehand sketching skills?
- Describe how to sketch an irregular shape.
- What is the difference between hatching and cross-hatching?
Conclusion
The teacher marks students’ work, provides feedback, and encourages them to practice sketching daily.