Calligraphy
Creative crafts Series
What’s inside...
A series of books showing how to succeed with a wide range of arts and crafts. This title develops art and craft skills by encouraging the reader to produce beautiful lettering using guide sheets, which are used to write in different styles. It also includes a brief history of calligraphy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-18
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the different styles of calligraphy shown in the book?
How do you feel when you see the intricate designs and letters?
Can you imagine creating your own calligraphy artwork? What would it look like?
Why do you think people still practice calligraphy in a digital age?
What was the most surprising thing you learned about calligraphy?
Tip: Role play these questions
Sit down with your child and practice drawing some simple calligraphy strokes together to deepen their connection to the art.
Show genuine interest in your child's opinions about the traditional and modern styles of calligraphy discussed in the book.
Encourage your child to use their imagination by asking them to come up with a calligraphy design for their name or a favorite word.
Discuss the importance of patience and practice when mastering a skill like calligraphy, making parallels to other skills they are learning.
Visit a local art museum or gallery featuring calligraphic art to extend learning beyond the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience and Persistence
Explanation: The book follows the main character's journey in learning calligraphy, showing how they overcome challenges and practice diligently.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles to any new skill they learn, whether it's playing an instrument or a new sport, understanding that practice leads to improvement.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Art
Explanation: John Lancaster’s 'Calligraphy' introduces children to the beauty and artistry of handwriting, highlighting the history and styles of calligraphy.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to explore and appreciate different forms of artistic expression in their everyday surroundings, from museum visits to appreciating the aesthetics of street signs.
Example Lesson: Attention to Detail
Explanation: The protagonist learns to pay close attention to the intricate details of calligraphy, which is essential for mastering the art.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of focusing on small details, which can enhance their concentration and attentiveness in tasks like homework or chores.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: Through the global history of calligraphy covered in the book, children are exposed to various cultures and their unique contributions to the art form.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children embrace and value diverse cultures, promoting open-mindedness and inclusivity in their interactions with peers from different backgrounds.