Lesson 2: Expressive vs. Directional Line

How can lines of various type, direction, and quality affect the mood and movement of a design?

In what ways can line be used to construct a complete design rather than just an outline?

How can variation and repetition enhance the visual impact of a linear composition?

Expressive Lines: Lines that convey a specific feeling, emotion, or mood.

Directional Lines: Lines used to guide the viewer’s eye through a composition.

Vertical: Lines that run up and down; often associated with stability or height.

Diagonal: Slanting lines that suggest action, tension, or movement.

Perpendicular: Lines that intersect at a 90-degree angle, creating structure.

Repetition: The use of similar lines to create rhythm and unity.

Variation: Changing the weight or type of line to create contrast and interest.

VA:CR:HS:1: Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
VA:RE:HS:9: Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work

Aquisition of skills and knowledge requires practice and perseverance.

Students will use a sketchbook or other surface to practice, develop, and refine expressive and directional line concepts.

Students will apply practiced techniques toward finished drawings that demonstrate structural and emotional line use.

Students will respond and reflect through critique to evaluate the effectiveness of their design choices.

Individual student progress will be assessed through pre/post tests, self-critique, and class rubrics.

DOK Level: Level 2 (Skill/Concept).

Zen Calligraphy & Enso: Exploring how a single expressive brushstroke in Japanese tradition captures the artist's focus and "line quality."

Wayfinding & Transit Maps: Analyzing how directional lines in subway maps (like London or NYC) simplify complex urban environments into clear visual designs.

Islamic Geometric Art: Using perpendicular and diagonal lines in Arabesque patterns to create infinite designs through mathematical repetition.

Line is limited to outline or contour line.

Linear designs are all similar in appearance or lack emotional depth.

Lesson delivery: Visual exemplars, written instructions, and demonstration of process and techniques via Google Classroom.

Check work in progress and provide immediate and individualized feedback to students.

Use of guided "line banks" for students who need assistance brainstorming expressive mark types.

What skills will be assessed?

The ability to use line to define the elements of art and principles of design.

The ability to make intentional design choices using line direction.

Demonstrated improvement in skill and technical control of drawing tools.

What specific aspects of task will be assessed?

Individual project evaluation based on project objectives.

Critique assessed through the Fine Arts Critique Rubric.

• Visual Exemplars of project.

• Demonstration tools: Document camera, SMART Board, Dry Erase Board, Google Classroom.

• Physical Materials: Drawing paper, various drawing tools: pencils, pens, ink, erasers, and rulers.