WHY SKETCH? 

You may be familiar with the concept that the brain is better at remembering pictures than text. So why do we take notes in written form instead of pictures? 

Sketchnotes can help increase memory of a topic and can develop creativity and artistic skills along the way. 

Sketching can truly be incorporated into every subject. Let go of the idea that "doodling is bad," embrace it, and let your students run wild!

Think you can't draw? 

I hear that a lot. 

Trust me, you CAN draw. Everyone can. Think about if you practiced drawing as much as you practiced math growing up. You'd be great at it! The thing is that many adults believe art is a talent you're born with (or without). If you spend time trying to learn it, you will. It's all about motivation, dedication and effort.

Check out my Art Without Excuses resources for videos to help incorporate art in your classroom. 

WHAT SHOULD sketchnotesLOOK LIKE?

Whatever you want it to look like! There is no "right" or "wrong" to sketch notes. They should simply help you remember whatever it is you were witnessing. 

To the left are some examples.

Drawing in Keynote

This video includes a quick overview in drawing using Keynote's simple and intuitive drawing tool. This extended version also shows how to animate your drawing. 

AUTODESK SKETCHBOOK

This video is a quick overview of the amazing features of the Autodesk Sketchbook app. I highly recommend this app for anyone looking to draw/sketchnote in their classroom. 

 

START WITH OBJECTS YOU'RE USED TO DRAWING!

it is best to start with something you're familiar with when you first try sketch notes. I recommend starting with a house, cloud, and favorites (food, movie, thing to do) and then moving on to more specific topics. This breaks down nervousness and builds confidence! Below are the examples from my presentation. The video includes the challenges, timed out to one minute each. 

Sketchnote Basics 

The video to the left walks you through some of the basics that you may want to use when creating your own sketch notes. 

Infographics