Observational drawings

Fernwood Infant School

Children in Year 2 (six to seven years old) at Fernwood Infant School in Nottingham made these observational drawings. This large, vibrant school used 'The Fighting Temeraire' as a springboard for learning across the curriculum for half of the summer term.

The children used models of sailing ships to inspire their observational drawings, and took the opportunity to find out about the voyages and endeavours of the Temeraire and other naval vessels. They looked closely at the detail of the hulls and rigging, and began to experiment with techniques for depicting depth.

Other classes considered what it might have been like below the Thames waterline, and some investigated wind and steam as a means of energy. Pupils developed a wealth of art skills during the project, including weaving, digital drawing, sewing, felting, 3D modelling, tie-dyeing, collage and painting. Their descriptive language also progressed, which fed into their writing.