Drawing and listening
Pictures to Order
Everyone draws the same spoken instructions, then compares how their pictures differ. Take turns deciding what belongs in the scene.
No reading needed; the host can repeat instructions.
Download the host card PDFBring to the table
- One sheet and pencil per player
- A flat drawing surface
Set up
- Give everyone a blank sheet in the same orientation. Explain that simple shapes and stick figures work well.
- Choose a caller for each instruction. Keep all pages visible to their owners; no blindfolds or closed eyes are needed.
How to play
- The first caller adds one object to the scene. Each player draws it, including the caller.
- The next caller names a new object and says where it goes in relation to something already drawn. Let everyone finish before continuing.
- After six instructions, display the pictures. Compare interpretations without awarding a best-looking drawing.
Building a shared scene
“Draw a tree in the middle. Put a bench to its left. Add a kite above the bench.” Left means the left side of the paper. If a drawing already fills the space, the artist can use a small symbol or arrow.
Your three-part session
Preview all the prompts here. The host controls the pace and can repeat, skip or shorten a part to suit the group.
1. A park
Begin with a tree in the middle. In turn, add a bench, path, kite, cloud and picnic basket with clear positions.
2. A space station
Begin with a round window. Each caller adds one object and explains where it goes.
3. Players build a place
Agree on a place together. Each person contributes one instruction, then compare the finished scenes.
Host one part at a time
Use this on the host’s screen. It keeps the current instruction visible while your group plays.
A park
Begin with a tree in the middle. In turn, add a bench, path, kite, cloud and picnic basket with clear positions.
A space station
Begin with a round window. Each caller adds one object and explains where it goes.
Players build a place
Agree on a place together. Each person contributes one instruction, then compare the finished scenes.
Ready when your group is.
Offer more support
Use fewer objects and let players point to a position while speaking. An adult can model one instruction on a separate sheet.
Add a challenge
Add a relationship such as between two objects or inside a shape. Require the caller to describe one useful detail.
If something goes wrong
If an instruction is ambiguous, ask the caller to clarify before anybody continues. Different artistic choices are expected and do not need correction.
Finish together
Each artist points to one instruction that produced a surprising difference. Keep the pictures as the group’s finished activity.