I got this project started by bringing in a bunch of sunglasses and calling the students back one by one to pick a pair, wear them, and pose for a photograph. Next, I printed each picture out on 8 1/2 x 11 paper (I am so thankful to teach at a school where I am able to do something like this). Using a light box, each photograph was used to trace the contour lines of the portrait using a black Sharpie. We traced the image onto a 12x12" square sheet of paper to mimic instagram and profile pictures.
Using the most successful combination of colors for their skin tone, students colored in their faces and any other parts of their skin in the image. Next they added pinks for rosy cheeks, and used dark and light colors to create highlights and shadows. Students used a similar approach with their hair color.
The 5th graders worked very hard to complete these self-portraits and I am so grateful for the amount of pride that each students feels about their artwork. They truly turned out amazing. I have had more teachers and students compliment these than any project I've taught before. Super proud!!!