Need a sub plan fast? Every art teacher knows the panic of waking up sick or dealing with a sudden emergency and realizing—you don’t have a plan ready for your sub. That’s where a print-and-go art sub plan comes in handy. Designed with flexibility, student engagement, and teacher peace of mind in mind, this resource ensures your classroom runs smoothly—even when you can’t be there.
Why This Art Sub Plan Saves the Day!
-
Flexible: Works as a 1, 2, or even 3-day lesson plan, adaptable to both middle and high school classes.
-
Standards-Based: Aligned with the Elements of Art, so it fits seamlessly into any curriculum.
-
Student-Friendly: Activities are easy to follow, structured, and engaging—perfect for independent work.
-
Sub-Ready: Instructions are already written, formatted, and ready to print, so your substitute knows exactly what to do.
What’s Included
This ready-made resource takes care of everything:
-
Activity 1: Art Elements Coloring Page – A kid-friendly review activity that doubles as a sketchbook or bellringer activity.
-
Activity 2: Art Elements Drawing with a 5-page design packet – Complete with instructions and color examples (one packet per table works great).
-
Two Sets of Directions for the day’s activities – One detailed guide for the substitute and another simplified version to display on your whiteboard screen or for students’ table.
-
Color Schemes Handout – A quick guide to help your students choose attractive color combinations.
-
Landscape Inspiration Sheet – Handout to help students create depth, space, and overlapping if students struggle with creating a landscape drawing.
-
Examples & Drawing Tips – 2 Visual references to show students the quality expectations (no rushed scribbles).
-
Quick Prep Guide for Teachers – A simple checklist so you know exactly what to print and leave out.
Student Outcomes
With this sub plan, your students will:
-
Review and apply the Elements of Art.
-
Create original artwork using at least four elements.
-
Explore color schemes and learn to show depth in their drawings.
-
Practice neatness, craftsmanship, and creative confidence.
- This Sub Lesson can be used to fill 1,2 or even 3 days!
Zero-Stress Sub Plan Prep!
Prep couldn’t be easier. Just print the packet, the coloring page, and the sub instructions. Leave them on your desk with some drawing paper, markers and colored pencils, and your students will be fully engaged in meaningful, standards-aligned activities.
The next time life throws you a curveball, you’ll be glad you had this instant art sub plan ready to go!
Pro Tip: Keep a couple of copies already printed and stored in a labeled “Sub Tub.” That way, you’ll never scramble again when you need a day off!
Do you need more Art Sub Plan Ideas? You can find them HERE!
You might also enjoy this Drawing Packet to help your students generate subject matter ideas!!
