Another great lesson that works as easily for children as adults. The examples here are from seven-year-olds.
I give the students this handout, which shows how three different modern artists took a subject and made it simpler, more stylized, and less realistic with each iteration.
I do an example sequence for them, usually asking them to find a reference for me to work from so I can model working completely from scratch like they will be.
And then I have them find an object or a photo reference to work from. They generally make around six drawings to get where we want to be. It varies by student. I've only documented the first and last stages here.
Below, one student drew architecture and really focused in on the organic shapes. In some ways, the shapes feel more accurate in the final drawing. Note how symmetry is present in both, but is stronger in the last one. The way the picture plane is filled is also notable. I really enjoy the mirrored stairs on either side. Remember, this is a seven-year-old student!
 |  |
In the next example, the student drew a thumb piano and abstracted it step-by-step until arriving at this beautiful art deco instrument. Again, this was a seven-year-old student. Not only is the thumb piano reduced to its essential components, but it is also masterfully designed.
 |  |
