Favourite Book Characters

Lesson Overview

Subject: Art and Design
Year Group: Year 1
Lesson Duration: 35 minutes
Class Size: 24 pupils
Curriculum Area: National Curriculum for England – Art and Design KS1
Specific Focus: Pupils will create an A4 poster of their favourite character from a book, using drawing and colouring techniques.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, pupils will:

• Explore and discuss their favourite book characters.
• Develop drawing and colouring skills on an A4 poster.
• Express their understanding of a character through visual art.
• Use different art materials to bring their character to life.

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Resources Needed

• A4 paper (1 per pupil)
• Pencils, rubbers, and sharpeners
• Coloured pencils, felt-tip pens, and crayons
• Picture books (variety for inspiration)
• Example posters (pre-prepared by the teacher)
• Whiteboard and markers

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction & Discussion (5 minutes)

• Begin with an enthusiastic discussion: "Who loves books? Who has a favourite character?"
• Show a selection of well-known book characters (The Gruffalo, Paddington, Winnie the Pooh, etc.).
• Ask pupils: "What do these characters look like? What makes them special?"
• Briefly explain what a poster is – a creative big picture that stands out and tells us something.

2. Planning the Poster (5 minutes)

• Ask pupils to think of their favourite book character.
• Encourage them to discuss what makes them special with a partner.
• Demonstrate a simple sketching process on the whiteboard:
  • Start with shapes (circles, ovals, rectangles).
  • Add details (eyes, clothes, accessories).
• Share a pre-made example to inspire pupils.

3. Creating the Poster (20 minutes)

• Pupils begin drawing their chosen character in the centre of their A4 sheet.
• Encourage bold outlines and big, clear features to make the character recognisable.
• Pupils can use felt-tip pens, coloured pencils, and crayons to add colour.
• Walk around, praise creativity, and offer encouragement and guidance.
• If pupils finish early, they can add a decorative background or the book title.

4. Sharing & Reflection (5 minutes)

• Pupils share their posters with a partner and describe their character.
• Choose a few to present to the class – what book are they from? Why do they like this character?
• Praise everyone's effort and highlight different creative styles.
• Optional: Arrange posters in a classroom display titled "Our Favourite Book Characters!"

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Differentiation

• Support: Provide simple template outlines for pupils who need extra guidance.
• Challenge: Encourage confident artists to add expressions, movement, and extra details.
• SEN Considerations: Offer chunked instructions and use visual prompts.

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Assessment Criteria

• Engagement: Did pupils enthusiastically participate in discussions?
• Creativity: Did they include key character features in their drawing?
• Presentation: Have they used bold lines and colour effectively?
• Understanding: Can they explain their character in simple terms?

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Teacher Reflection

• What went well?
• Did pupils enjoy the creative process?
• Would tweaks improve planning, timing, or resources for next time?