Art and Illustration for the Classroom: A Guide for Teachers and Parents

Lesley Shortt is an elementary-school teacher in Milton, Ontario.

In the classroom, art is an important prewriting activity that provides
opportunities for experimentation, cognitive development,
self-expression, and fun. Such is the theme of this excellent guide for
those who teach art to students ranging from kindergarten to adolescents
(including gifted and special-needs students).

The author covers a broad range of art projects, from simple line
drawings to sophisticated mask-making. Each art lesson is accompanied by
tips, an extensive materials list, prep notes, and black-and-white
photos. There is a section of color plates in the middle of the book.

Preparation for each art lesson includes helpful tips on how to conduct
the lesson using readily available and inexpensive household items
(e.g., Ziplock bags to protect books or photos from paint splatters
during a painting lesson). Also included is an extensive list of picture
books that teachers can use as visual referenes during the lessons, a
glossary of art terms, lists of materials, and teacher reference
resources.