The Mathalicious Part

The practice of using a grid to create an accurate reproduction of a subject has been done since the days of Leonardo da Vinci. My students are finding that it is an effective way to improve their perception of perspective and proportion in their drawing. A few students remarked, "The grid is easier because I can focus on one square at a time, and as each of them comes together the portrait is reveiled." - Ashley.  "Every square shows you the lines and value." --Konnadia.  "It was hard at first, but if you practice and focus on the square it helps." -- Myosha.  I employ the gridding method because of the infusion of math skills. The students use a dialation scale factor of 3, they learn how to read a ruler, and understand measurements. To take the lesson up a notch, my students paint a gray scale, and create another value scale. That should assist them to develop a sensitivity to varying lights and dark values found in their portraits which they will shade accordingly.