This is great for the beginning of the year and creates a wonderful piece of art for a wall of the classroom!

Each student is given a square piece of paper.
Use a ruler to find the middle of each side and mark it with a dot.
Use the ruler and a pencil to connect the dots so there is a diamond in the middle of the paper.

For grades 1 and 2, simply have the student make a self portrait in the middle and draw things they like in the sides.
For grade 3, you can ask for more detail:

Write the following instructions on the board or overhead for the students while/after explaining:
1) In the center, draw yourself and write your name
2) In the left, tell how many siblings you have or if you're an only child or if you have pets and draw your family. (Example: I have two sisters!)
3) On the top, tell what you want to learn about this year and draw. (Example: I want to learn about space!)
4) To the right, tell what your favorite activity is and make a drawing. (Example: I love to play soccer!)
5) On the bottom, tell what your favorite school subject is and draw. (Example: I love math!)

You can simply tape them together or, for extra color, put strips of colored paper between the squares and around the border!