Nature Drawing and Journaling

Name: Nature Drawing and Journaling
Brand: How Great Thou ART Publications

by How Great Thou ART Publications

ArtGrades 9–12

Nature Drawing and Journaling: Charlotte Mason-Inspired Outdoor Art Study

Nature Drawing and Journaling is a Charlotte Mason-aligned art curriculum that combines drawing instruction with journaling through 47 lessons focused on outdoor nature study. The program includes both a book and DVD set, teaching drawing techniques while students observe and document natural subjects like plants, animals, weather, and landscapes.

Best for

High school students and adults in Charlotte Mason homeschool settings who want to combine art instruction with nature study, particularly those needing structured drawing guidance

Evaluation Criteria

3 strengths · 1 concern · 1 neutral · 1 insufficient evidence

Direct InstructionStrength

The curriculum facilitates direct instruction effectively through video demonstrations and detailed lesson structure, particularly in the DVD format.

The review emphasizes that 'the DVDs show Stebbing teaching drawing techniques' with 'step-by-step lessons' and notes the author 'weaves in gentle instructions that give you the sense of having a mentor alongside'

Structured Vs OpenStrength

The curriculum balances structured technique lessons with creative application through personal journaling and outdoor observation.

The program provides '47 lessons that walk through preparatory steps' while also including 'about 30 pages of Journal Primer' with mostly blank pages 'for you to determine your own creative layout'

Technique InstructionStrength

The curriculum provides structured drawing instruction through step-by-step lessons, with the DVD set offering explicit demonstration of techniques and media use.

The review notes 'step-by-step lessons' and that 'the DVDs show Stebbing teaching drawing techniques and use of various media' with 'Each lesson generally has a number of art exercises'

Art History KnowledgeConcern

The curriculum does not appear to include formal art history instruction, focusing instead on direct observation and technique.

The review describes lessons covering 'color, lines, plants, trees, vines, flowers, landscape elements, weather effects, animals, birds, and insects' but makes no mention of art history, artists, or cultural contexts

Teacher TrainingNeutral

The curriculum provides good support for teachers through detailed instructions and video demonstrations, though primarily designed for student self-direction.

The review indicates the DVDs 'surely make the entire process much more manageable for the fledgling artist' and provide step-by-step guidance, though it's written 'for teens and adults' suggesting student independence

Vocabulary BuildingInsufficient Evidence

Limited evidence of explicit art vocabulary instruction, with focus appearing to be on practical application rather than terminology.

The review mentions instruction in 'basics of journaling, gathering supplies, preparing your journal' and drawing techniques, but does not specifically reference art vocabulary or terminology instruction

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com