Draw-Write-Now

Description

These are unusual books, combining art instruction with handwriting practice, and incorporating more than a little history and science instruction along the way. Based on a successful formula created by a now 75-year-old former teacher to inspire her students, these inviting books might become your child's favorite part of the school day! They are non-consumable, as your child will do the actual art work and writing on separate paper. Each book is divided into three themes (see below) with a total of 21 lessons. In the spirit of Drawing with Children, most of the lessons begin with seeing the targeted objects as basic shapes and lines. In each lesson, a colorful picture shows the author's model artwork, with neatly penned text on ruled lines underneath. Step-by-step drawing instruction for the main object in the picture is contained on the facing page. Usually, this begins with basic shape(s), then details are added a little at a time. After you introduce the subject of the lesson, your child follows these directions (with help, if needed) to reproduce the subject. Then, a similar or original background and details are added to the student's picture. After this is done, the accompanying text is copied. (Although text is shown in manuscript, you might want to have older children practice cursive.) Text is informational and in short sentences; the author believes this is more motivational and useful than forming isolated letters. It seems to me that, after carefully creating such beautiful artwork, children will be very careful to use their neatest and best writing underneath! After the handwriting is finished, your child can color the picture with crayons, colored pencils, or felt tips. Additional lesson-specific drawing tips and suggestions are offered in a Teaching Tips section at the end of the book. Some additional ideas and help for increasing art awareness or new techniques are also found at the end of each themed unit. Each lesson includes a related question to promote thinking and discussion. Answers to each are also provided at the end of each unit, along with a suggested book to read that will expand on the topic. If you incorporate this literature, each theme could become a complete unit study! We would recommend using the Draw-Write-Now softcover blank workbook with a framed blank space on one page with dotted half lines on the opposite page to keep all your drawing and handwriting creations together. Available in 3/8" and 5/8" ruled dotted half lines.

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Religious Content
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.