Lesson 3: Value on Forms
Duration of Days: 5
Lesson Objective
Students will create a series of observational drawings applying a full range of value.
Students will define three-dimensional forms by identifying and rendering specific light logic components.
Students will implement shading techniques to accurately depict highlights, midtones, core shadows, and cast shadows.
How can you use value to define the physical volume and weight of forms in an artwork?
How can value and gradation be applied to translate a 3D object onto a 2D surface?
How can the strategic variation of value create a realistic sense of space and depth?
Value: The relative lightness or darkness of a surface.
Gradation: A seamless transition between different values.
Form: A three-dimensional object or the illusion of three-dimensionality on a flat surface.
Light Source: The primary direction from which light originates.
Highlight: The brightest area on a form where light hits directly.
Midtone: The actual color or value of the object, located between the highlight and shadow.
Shadow: The darkest area on the form itself, where light is blocked.
Cast Shadow: The dark area on a surface resulting from an object blocking the light source.
Shading: The technique of using varying pressure to build value.
VA:CR:HS:1: Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
VA:CR:HS:2: Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
VA:RE:HS:7: Perceive and analyze artistic work.
VA:RE:HS:9: Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.
Evidence-Based Inference: Identifying where a shadow falls based on a light source mirrors the logical inference skills required in SAT Reading.
Analyzing Systems: Understanding "Light Logic" is similar to understanding a biological system in SBA Science; if the light moves, the shadows must change predictably.
Precision in Execution: The focus required to blend a smooth gradation supports the academic stamina needed for the PSAT.
Students will use a sketchbook to practice identifying and rendering the elements of light logic on basic geometric forms.
Students will apply these techniques to a finished drawing of complex forms.
Students will respond and reflect through critique.
Progress assessed through pre/post tests, self-critique, and class rubrics.
DOK Level: Level 2 (Skill/Concept).
Environmental Observation: Students will identify how the sun’s position creates changing shadows and highlights on local buildings and objects in their community.
Product Design: Exploring how value is used in advertisements and catalogs to make products appear three-dimensional and "real" on a flat screen or page.
Photography: Identifying how photographers use a single light source to create "high-key" or "low-key" moods in portraits.
Anticipated Misconceptions
Shading is just "coloring in" rather than a logical system based on a light source.
Cast shadows are always solid black (ignoring the subtle gradations within a shadow).
Lesson delivery: Visual exemplars, written instructions, and live demonstrations via Google Classroom.
Check work in progress and provide immediate, individualized feedback.
Provide physical lamps for students to manipulate light on their own desks.
What skills will be assessed?
The ability to define 3D form using a light source and a 5-point value range.
The ability to accurately place highlights, midtones, and cast shadows.
What specific aspects of task will be assessed?
Critique assessed through the Fine Arts Critique Rubric.
Visual Exemplars of rendered forms5
Demonstration tools: Document camera, SMART Board, spotlight or desk lamp.
Physical Materials: Drawing paper, graphite pencils, blending stumps, and kneaded erasers.