Plastic Expressions research on kids
of 4-5 years old
Introduction
The following report focuses on identifying different aspects of plastic expression towards
kids of 4-5 years old.
Objectives
General:
Recognize the process of plastics expression in kids from 4 to 5 years old in classrooms.
Especifics:
● Determine and analyze which elements of plastic expression are shown in the
drawings.
● Identify Jean Piaget 's stages of cognitive development and George Henrri Luquet
drawing stages.
● Suggest ideas for improving plastic expressions in class activities.
Method
Target audience: 4 to 5 years old kids
Collecting Data: A selected group of kinder students were given a blank piece of paper with
the instruction of “Draw freely with your imagination” and were given colored pencils.
Results
Color
Color Meaning Results
Yellow Happiness, optimism, creativity 10
Pink Love, femininity, compassion 10
Green Nature, growth, health 9
Light blue Peace, clarity, trust 8
Blue Calm, trust, stability 8
Purple Royalty, luxury, mystery 7
Red Passion, love, energy 7
White Purity, innocence, peace 6
Orange Enthusiasm, warmth, adventure 4
Black Elegance, power, mystery 4
Total number of drawings: 12
Pattern
In some of the drawings, a pattern (repetitive movement, color, or line) is shown. For
example, the rainbow drawings, which have repetitive, ordered lines.
Symbolism
At 4-5 years old, children drew their families, loved ones, or themselves, using the symbolic
thinking characteristic of Piaget's preoperational stage. Drawing becomes a way to
represent their relationships and emotions. According to Luquet, these children are in the
visual realism stage, attempting to represent what they see, although they may simplify or
distort details. Most of the students drew rainbows. So, this element not only reflects nature
but can also symbolize feelings of joy, hope, or family unity.
Shape
According to the theory, children 4-5 years old make circular motions that demonstrate their
ability to create more complex forms. They have greater control over motor activity and
controlled repetition of motions. Additionally, this is reflected in their use of limited and
geometric shapes to compose the different elements they want to represent
Line
At 4-5 years old, children explore different types of lines when they draw freely. Curly lines
are the most commonly used, though they vary in height and spacing between curves.
Additionally, straight and wavy lines frequently appear in their drawings, reflecting their
growing motor control and creative expression. These lines help them represent movement,
texture, and emotion in their artwork.
Contrast
Contrast and emphasis is evident in how they highlight important elements using bright
colors, strong contrasts, or exaggerated sizes. According to Luquet, children in the visual
realism stage attempt to represent what they see but may distort or enlarge certain figures,
such as family members, to emphasize their significance.
Concussion
Children aged 4 to 5 years begin to define and add more detail to their drawings. In most
cases, they go beyond simple representation and show awareness of the shapes, figures,
and lines needed to compose the elements they want to symbolize. Additionally, they start
recognizing and applying body structure in their drawings. Colors allow them to express
themselves, and they enjoy using them, as colors often reflect their mood and emotions. For
them, colors serve as a tool to highlight, emphasize, and make their creations more visually
striking.
Recommendations
● Plan plastic expression activities according to developmental stages
● Coordinate activities with children's interests
● Select appropriate materials
● Organize and allocate time effectively
● Support symbolic thinking and free expression
● Encourage exploration of lines and shapes
● Respect the natural progression of realism
