Linear perspective is the concept of how nearby objects appear larger and further down from the horizon line, while objects that are further away appear smaller and closer to the horizon line.
Students are shown examples of Linear Perspective in real life. The concept of the Horizon Line is reviewed with computer generated images. Space Indicators and principles of Two-Point perspective are illustrated on the board with drawings done by the teacher. Students follow along drawing, on their paper, what the teacher draws on the board.
The teacher starts by showing students how to draw boxes in Two-Point Perspective (see illustration above). Next the class draws a large box. They turn that box into a building by adding a street and windows.
A partially complete street scene is available here (Or a partially completed building here.)for students who were absent or who may be having trouble with the concept of Perspective. It can be printed out and given to those who are behind or having difficulties, allowing them to darken lines, add windows and other details to complete their drawing.
The assignments vary from year to year. One possible project is to make their own drawing of buildings using Two-Point Perspective and then add things to make their picture tell a story. Another possibility is to create an imaginary scene similar to the one shown below with stalactites (printable version here) using the handout found by clicking here.
Depending on time, another class period may be used to share student pictures and stories.
The book, Zoom, by Istav Banyai is also used in class as an example of how things that are farther away appear smaller.
