Title: Blackboard Sketching
Author: Whitney, Frederick
Language: English
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  BLACKBOARD
  SKETCHING

  _By_
  FREDERICK WHITNEY
  Director _of_ Art, State Normal
  School, Salem, Massachusetts

  [Illustration]

  _Published by_ MILTON BRADLEY COMPANY
  SPRINGFIELD, MASS.
  BOSTON      NEW YORK      PHILADELPHIA
  ATLANTA      SAN FRANCISCO
  1909



  COPYRIGHT, 1908
  BY MILTON BRADLEY CO.
  SPRINGFIELD, MASS.



Introduction


Ability to draw easily and well on the blackboard is a power which
every teacher of children covets. Such drawing is a language which
never fails to hold attention and awaken delighted interest.

It has been considered impossible for most of us, because we have never
done it. It has been strongly recommended, but no one has really shown
us how.

A book like this which does show how, step by step, from the first
practice strokes to completed and effective sketches, will be
everywhere welcome. No one can follow the plain suggestions given
without appreciating the possibilities of chalk and charcoal for
ordinary school-room illustration, and finding in himself a steady
development of power to sketch on the blackboard.

The book is not the product of theories about drawing, but the fruit
of long experience of one who has drawn with and for children and
students and teachers, and has been more successful than any one I know
in inspiring them by that means. I welcome the book and predict for
it a potent influence for increasing and improving blackboard drawing
throughout the schools of the land.

  WALTER SARGENT.

 _North Scituate, Mass._



Author’s Introduction


This collection of blackboard sketches and the accompanying text has
been planned at the request of many teachers and pupils who desire
lessons and suggestions along this line, but who are unable to secure
personal instruction.

In general, these requests have been for simple sketches dealing with
the various lines of school work, and at the same time for strokes and
explicit directions for using these in the drawings. For these reasons
there are given upon nearly every plate the strokes of the chalk useful
in producing the desired effect, and upon the opposite page such
directions as are generally given to the students in the classroom.

A few of the lessons deal with the strokes and their application to the
very simplest objects possible, but even these may be found useful as
illustrative material. They are recommended in order that the teacher
may become familiar with the medium, and with the simplest and the most
direct manner of handling it before attempting sketches which require a
great variety of touches. I have tried to have the other sketches cover
as great a variety of subjects as possible.

Plates 3, 5, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23 and 29 have been
used with the little people in different forms of stories, language
and reading lessons. Plates 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18, 27, 28 and 29 are
suggested for geography lessons in various grades. Plates 8, 14, 15,
16, 17, 18, 27, 28 and 29 may be used in history lessons. Plates 1
and 3 have been used in primary numbers, and plates 27 and 28 for
arithmetic, when the problems had to do with commission, measurement,
etc., or when the problems referred to lumbering or manufacturing.
Plates 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27 and 28
will be found helpful in many lines of nature study, especially when
the nature specimens are difficult to obtain. Plates 9, 24, 25 and
26 illustrate the value of this line of drawing in the study of
literature; and many of the other drawings may be used in a similar
manner. The teacher who uses this type of illustrative sketching will
readily see how the drawings may be applied to other subjects.

Teachers have occasionally asked for illustrations for the different
months of the school year, something to use with calendars, or for
different holiday drawings. Several sketches given on the plates are
suitable for the various months. For calendars I suggest discarding the
plaided pumpkin for November, the numbered bricks in a fireplace for
December, the kite covered with numbered squares for March, etc., etc.
A regular numbered calendar may be used, with an appropriate sketch
above or at one side. See Plate 13, goldenrod. The holiday itself
should suggest the character of the sketch.

Although these sketches are recommended as illustrations for certain
subjects, it is not intended that the teacher should merely copy these
drawings, but that she should be able to appropriate these strokes,
enlarge upon them, and apply them in illustrations for the particular
subjects she is teaching; and there are many subjects which require
just this sort of expression on the part of the teacher.

“Children are not all ears; they take in more through the eyes than in
any other way.”

Since all teachers know this is true, they should realize the
usefulness of illustration on the blackboard.

A few moments now and then devoted to the practice of these strokes,
and frequent application of them, will enable the teacher better to
express and emphasize certain facts, details, or incidents connected
with a lesson; better to hold the interest and attention of the
class, and more readily to create an interest in drawing. She will
thus, by example, lead the children to make the drawing a natural and
spontaneous means of expression.

  FREDERICK WHITNEY.

[Illustration: Plate 1]



PLATE 1


For the first lesson I advise trying the simplest possible stroke, and
its application in the sketching of very simple things. The stroke is a
straight mark with the side of the chalk.

Take half or two-thirds of a stick of chalk, discard the small end, and
use such a piece in nearly all the lessons given. In this case place
the chalk horizontally upon the board, and drag it gradually downward,
keeping an even pressure upon the chalk. Try this in various directions.

The oblique lines show what a variety of width may be obtained by
changing the angle of the chalk. At 1, the full length of the chalk
is required to give the broad stroke desired. At Nos. 2, 3, 4 and 5,
the line above the stroke indicates the angle at which the chalk is
placed in order to give the width of the strokes below. The use of the
chalk in this manner enables one to obtain any desired width of line,
without constantly changing the piece of chalk. A light or dark tone is
produced by varying the pressure upon the chalk.

In drawing the telegraph pole, draw first a delicate vertical stroke,
then add the horizontal cross pieces with a stronger accent, and last
the white strokes indicating thickness.

In the case of the chicken coop, draw first the oblique slats, then
with a stronger pressure upon the chalk, add the horizontal slats, and
lastly, with the point of the chalk add the accented bits of detail.

Almost any simple object composed of straight lines may be drawn in
this manner.

[Illustration: Plate 2]



PLATE 2


The strokes upon this plate are more often used than any others which
will be given in these lessons. These strokes are made by holding the
chalk by one end rather than in the middle, and then by drawing in any
direction desired, letting the pressure come at the end of the chalk,
thus giving a graded stroke from side to side. For example, stroke 1
was made by taking about two-thirds of a stick of chalk, holding it by
the left end, placing it horizontally upon the board, and then drawing
downward, accenting a little with the left end of the chalk. Stroke 5
was made in a similar manner, the chalk being held by the right end,
and the pressure being also at that end.

Practice these strokes in many directions, and then apply them to
drawing some simple objects. On the plate the cylinder, barrel, and
canoe are illustrated to show the application of such simple marks.

In the cylinder, strokes 1 and 5 are used for the left and right
outlines; then three curving strokes will finish the top and bottom.

In sketching the barrel, use similar strokes, curving them a bit. Add
curving strokes for the hoops, using a short piece of chalk; then add
markings here and there with the point for details.

The canoe is one long, nearly horizontal stroke accented at the upper
end of the chalk. A few small touches similar to those at 3 will give
the rocky shore, and a line or two with the point, the necessary
details.

[Illustration: Plate 3]



PLATE 3


The lesson planned at illustration 3 is useful in a number of school
lessons in the lower grades. I have seen it used in teaching reading in
the first grade. In this case, some word from the lesson was written
upon each apple, and the children were asked to see how many apples
they could gather and put into the basket; in other words, to see how
many words they could read. When a word was recognized, it was erased.
Again, it has been successfully used in teaching number, form, etc. See
also the ladder, plate 10.

Stroke 1 is made by placing the chalk upon the board in a vertical
position and then drawing it across the board, varying the pressure
frequently so as to give the effect seen in the basket. The strokes at
2 are produced in the same manner. Here the light spots in the stroke
are alternated, coming beneath the dark spots in the stroke above. Try
a number of these in the curving direction suggested at 2.

In making a sketch of a basket, draw lightly the elliptical top, then
add as many strokes as are necessary to give the desired depth, and
lastly add the handle. Strokes 3, and the ellipse below them, show the
manner of producing this effect. Place the chalk horizontally at the
top of the basket, decide where the handle should end at the opposite
side, then draw upward with a heavy stroke, across the top lightly,
then downward with a slight pressure. Keep the chalk in a horizontal
position throughout the stroke. Add a line of accent to the nearest
edge of the handle.

The tree trunk back of the basket is drawn with strokes 1 and 5, plate
2, the stroke being curved a bit at the lower end. The grass is added
by the use of stroke 5, which is made by using a short piece of chalk,
and by moving the hand rapidly up and down. A little accent may be used
occasionally.

In drawing the apples study stroke 4. These are made like those on
plate 2, by accenting with the end of the chalk. Use a very short
curving stroke, first toward the left, then toward the right. Add
stems, etc., with the point of the chalk.

[Illustration: Plate 4]



PLATE 4


Lesson 4 introduces a stroke entirely different from those already
given, and one which will require more practice in order to obtain the
desired results and to apply it readily in quick sketches.

Stroke 1 is made by placing the chalk in a horizontal position upon
the board, and drawing it downward, gradually twisting it to the
vertical position. Stroke 2 is the exact opposite. Place the chalk
vertically upon the board, draw it downward and gradually twist it to
the horizontal position.

In drawing strokes 3 and 4, combine those already given at 1 and 2. For
3, place the chalk vertically, draw it downward, quickly twisting it
to the horizontal position; then, without removing it from the board,
bring it back to the vertical position. Try stroke 4, beginning with
the horizontal position of the chalk, twisting it to the vertical, then
back again to the horizontal position.

Stroke 5 shows a curving effect produced in the same manner as stroke
3, but with a curving instead of a vertical tendency.

In drawing the cat tails, use strokes 1 and 5 on plate 2. These are
slightly curved at the upper and lower ends. Keep some of them very
delicate, others quite white. The leaves are drawn by using strokes 1,
2, and 3, on plate 4. Let the tone desired in the drawing govern the
pressure used upon the chalk.

The palms are drawn by using the same strokes. Draw first very
delicately with the side of the chalk, then with strokes 1, 2 or 3 add
stronger strokes for accent.

[Illustration: Plate 5]



PLATE 5


A new stroke will be introduced for this lesson. It is a regular or
irregular curve as the case may require, and is useful in all sorts of
nature drawing.

First try the long curving stroke No. 1, accenting with the left end
of the chalk. Reverse the stroke, accenting with the right end of the
chalk. Now try No. 2, making a series of nearly parallel strokes,
keeping the accent at the left.

The pumpkin is drawn by combining these strokes, varying the pressure
to obtain the desired tone, and accenting with the left end of the
chalk, then reversing the stroke for the right side of the pumpkin. Add
the stem by the use of a few irregular strokes and a bit of accent.

Stroke 3 may be used in drawing any large leaves, such as squash,
grape, etc. Try this in a great variety of positions, always keeping
the accent for the edge of the leaf. Apply this in drawing the grape
foliage in the illustration below. Draw first the mid-rib and then
represent the surface of the leaf by using stroke 3. The grapes are
added by the use of stroke 4, which is stroke 1 very much reduced. Let
the grapes be drawn with a short, quick twist of the chalk. Lastly add
stems and accent.

Almost any vegetables may be drawn after a little practice of the
strokes given at 5. These are made exactly like stroke 1, with changes
in direction. Try a single onion or carrot, then a group of vegetables.
Do these as simply as possible, obtaining the effect, if you can, with
three or four strokes, then add a few touches for details.

[Illustration: Plate 6]



PLATE 6


The strokes given in this lesson, although not used as frequently as
those previously given, are nevertheless valuable.

No. 1 shows the manner in which the stroke is produced. Place a piece
of chalk in the position indicated by the line below the stroke,
then swing the chalk rapidly back and forth, shortening the stroke
and gradually twisting the chalk to the vertical position. No. 2 is
produced in the same manner. Place the chalk obliquely as indicated,
and keep the movement oblique, shortening the stroke, and twisting the
chalk gradually to the horizontal position.

The fern is drawn by first sketching a few main lines, No. 3, and then
upon these apply the strokes given as shown at No. 4. Hardly touch the
board at first, keeping the tones very gray; then add a few white ferns
as in the sketch.

No. 6 illustrates the same stroke used in a much bolder fashion and in
a generally horizontal direction. After applying this stroke, accent
here and there with a much shorter stroke, and add the trunk and
branches.

Study the trees given on plate 12 in connection with this illustration
and notice the variety of strokes given for the different trees.

[Illustration: Plate 7]



PLATE 7


In this lesson we will put to practical use such strokes as those given
in the first few lessons. The sketches of this character are often
valuable in the schoolroom when studying the mountains, the hillside,
the river, etc., and the teacher who, with a few strokes of the chalk,
can interpret to her class the thing about which they are studying, and
can make an illustration which the whole class can see and appreciate,
has an invaluable gift.

Experiment with the strokes given at 1, 2 and 3. As in previous lessons
the side of the chalk is used, and the accent is with one end. Try to
give the effect of snow, of rocks, of a bright day, or of a cloudy
day, by varying the tone or pressure upon the chalk. Sometimes use
the chalk for sky, leaving the board for the hills. Then reverse the
stroke, letting the sky remain gray and using the chalk to represent
the mountain, accenting with the upper end of the chalk. No. 3 is a
combination of 1 and 2, the chalk being used in both sky and mountain.
In No. 4, the eraser or a soft bit of cloth is used to take out the
trees after the chalk has been applied.

In the sketch given on the lower part of the plate combine the
suggestions given above. A few short, curving strokes with the usual
accent at one end of the crayon will give the rocks, and the irregular
horizontal and zigzag strokes already given will produce the ripples in
the river, and the foreground.

[Illustration: Plate 8]



PLATE 8


In the exercise illustrated on the opposite page you will find
combinations of the strokes already given, but they are varied somewhat
in rendering these drawings. Any sketch or object to be drawn should
dictate the kind of stroke to be used and the manner of handling the
chalk, the pressure, accent, etc.

For the larger sketch, draw first the tree trunks as shown at No 1. Let
the pressure be as gentle as possible, the chalk hardly touching the
board. After these are massed in the background, erase a triangular
spot for the wigwam, and with the oblique strokes 2, accented first at
the left, then at the right, obtain the general form required. Stroke
3 is added at the top of the wigwam, and a bit of charcoal is used for
the dark tone at the opening. Now add the decorative details.

In order to complete the sketch, use stroke 4 for the foreground. It
is similar to those previously used, and is made by an irregular,
up-and-down movement of the chalk.

A pond, a canoe, or other suggestive detail may be used in this sketch,
and applied to the work in history, geography, language, etc.

Try the second little drawing, using similar strokes in a very simple
manner.

[Illustration: Plate 9]



PLATE 9


Lesson No. 7 gave a few suggestions useful in geography and landscape
work. This time we will try another type which will doubtless be found
equally useful.

Stroke 1 is a horizontal stroke accented at the lower end of the chalk
by a decided pressure. This will readily give a tone for the sky and a
definite line for the horizon.

At No. 2, the sky is drawn in the same manner, and charcoal or black
chalk is introduced for the ocean. These touches are made with the side
of the chalk in irregular, wavy lines.

Spray may be represented by massing a little chalk near the rocks or
beach, and by rubbing the tip of the finger or a soft bit of cloth into
the body of chalk, gradually blending it into the rocks or water. See
No. 4.

To obtain a sketch like that given in this lesson, first draw the
horizon, then the wavy strokes for the sea. The cliffs or rocks are
drawn by using strokes like those at No. 3. They are irregular strokes
accented with one end of the chalk. Here again the charcoal is useful
in adding crevices or shadows in the rocks. Erase spots for the boats
and add details.

The effect of a beach may be produced by using the same broad stroke
as in the sky, accenting with the upper end of the chalk to give
the margin of the beach. Add a few ripples and pebbles, or a bit of
seaweed, using the point of the chalk.

The sketch given on this plate was used as an illustration for
literature.

  A heap of bare and splintery crags
  Tumbled about by lightning and frost.

  --_Lowell._

[Illustration: Plate 10]



PLATE 10


The sketch on plate 10 was suggested for geography. It is very simple
and requires only strokes already used a number of times.

The sky and hill are represented by the use of stroke 1. Place a long
piece of chalk vertically, the accent at the lower end giving the
outline of the hill.

The marshy land is represented by a similar stroke carried in a
horizontal direction. The board is left free from chalk in the case
of the hill and the water. The village in the distance is added with
charcoal, and the reflections in the water with little touches of chalk
or charcoal.

Erase spots for the haystacks, and use stroke 3. This is a very simple
curving stroke with the side of the chalk, accenting with the left end
of the crayon; then a reverse stroke, accenting with the right end of
the chalk. If shadows are desired they may be added with charcoal or
black crayon. Observe that the tops of all the haystacks are on a level.

The sketch with the ladder was made for primary reading. Different
words were written on the different steps of the ladder and the
children tried to see how high they could climb; in other words, how
much of the lesson they could read. If they read all of the words they
could climb to the top of the haycock.

[Illustration: Plate 11]



PLATE 11


Here again are very simple strokes which require only a little practice
for accomplishment.

The distance is represented as in the last plate, and the grass and
meadow are done in the same manner as the marshy land on plate 10; 1
and 2 show the strokes. A few up-and-down touches with a short piece of
chalk are added in the immediate foreground.

The fence is drawn by the use of the strokes given on plate 1, and
shown at 3 on this plate.

After drawing the field and the fence, erase for the tree trunk and
tree and add the foliage. This is done with a short piece of chalk
and a quick back-and-forth movement. See plates 6, 12, and 24 for
other trees and strokes. The skeleton of the tree, as shown below the
drawing, may be represented first, then the foliage added.

This plate will be found useful in the early spring, as it shows the
tree in winter condition, the pussy willows, and the tree in summer.

Spots 4 show the treatment of the “pussies.” A very short curving
stroke of the chalk is first made; then the finger is used to give the
downy, soft effect. Sketch a few delicate lines for the stems, add the
catkins as described above, and then finish the stems with black and
white chalk.

[Illustration: Plate 12]



PLATE 12


In sketching trees, one should bear in mind the general attitude of the
tree, its characteristic form and branching, and the stroke which will
best produce these.

One teacher can best draw the tree by using such strokes as those at
No. 1 to give the trunk and branches, and then applying the stroke for
the foliage; while another teacher does better work by massing the
tree, as at No. 2, and then adding trunk, branches and details. Either
method is good.

The strokes above the trees show the manner of representing the foliage
of these particular trees. See plates 6, 11 and 24, for other trees.

Apply either of the methods described above, using half a stick of
chalk placed flat upon the board and moved rapidly in the direction
suggested by the stroke. For the elm it is a curving motion; for the
poplar up and down; for the pine, back and forth; for the oak or apple,
an irregular and slightly slanting stroke, etc.

After the mass of the tree is drawn, accent here and there with the
same stroke, and add branches and details.

When working upon a gray background or against a light tone for the
sky, use black chalk or charcoal in the manner described above.

[Illustration: Plate 13]



PLATE 13


As stated in the introduction, there have been many requests for
suggestions for calendars. Whatever the month may be, draw a simple
calendar large enough to be seen by the children. If a picture of some
sort is desired, draw something which will be appropriate to the month
and arrange it in a vertical panel at one side, or a horizontal panel
above or below the calendar. The goldenrod on plate 13 will show what
is meant by this arrangement.

All the strokes here given have been drawn before and are easily
applied. Strokes 1 are given for the goldenrod, strokes 2 for the
rose hips and leaves, 3 for the roses, 4 for the thistle, and 5 for
the daisy. With a few light touches of the chalk indicate the growth
and position of the specimen; then apply the strokes for drawing the
surface of flowers and leaves.

In sketching the thistle the pointed details are added with the point
of the chalk.

[Illustration: Plate 14]



PLATE 14


At No. 1 is a very simple stroke made by placing a piece of chalk in
a vertical position, and drawing it across the board in any desired
direction, breaking it at regular intervals by lifting the chalk from
the board. This stroke is useful in representing tiles, brick, stone,
or any broken surface.

In this particular sketch a horizontal stroke is first made for the
mantel, then the vertical strokes for the surface of the walls; then
the bricks are added by the use of the strokes given at 1. Erase the
space necessary for the fireplace, and add black chalk or charcoal,
leaving the board where the fire is to be represented.

A few gray strokes with the side of the chalk will indicate the logs,
and the use of stroke 2 will add the fire and smoke. Stroke 2 is made
by massing a little white chalk, and then rubbing into it with the
finger, gradually blending it into the tone of the blackboard. The
details, andirons, etc., are easily added.

If this sketch is used for Christmas, add toys, sleds, stockings, or
other objects suggestive of the day. They are all drawn with the side
of the chalk, the direction of the stroke being dictated by the object.

The sketches in this and the following lesson may be used in work in
history, or to illustrate the type of house used by the early settlers.
The sketch on plate 15 is supposed to be Washington’s home, and that on
plate 16 is Lincoln’s birthplace.

[Illustration: Plate 15]



PLATE 15


Study the horizontal lines at No. 1. Though not like those in the
sketch below, they show how any such cabin may be drawn. Try these
strokes, accenting with the upper end of the chalk while making the
horizontal line. Should one side of the building be lighter than the
other, obtain the desired effect by varying the pressure upon the chalk.

No. 2 is made by the use of a long piece of chalk, and by keeping a
smooth, even tone throughout the stroke.

Stroke 3 is made in a similar manner to that on plate 14 in the drawing
of the bricks. Make it in a rather irregular fashion, and add little
touches of detail with chalk or charcoal.

Stroke 4 is made with a very long piece of chalk, with strong pressure
on the lower end. This will give a good tone for the sky and serve as
an outline for the roof of the building.

In making this sketch, take a short piece of the chalk and use a stroke
like No. 1, beginning with a very short line; and increasing the length
of the strokes till the body of the house is reached and then keeping
the lines of uniform length to the ground.

After the body of the building and the sky are represented, erase the
logs where the chimney, windows, or door are to be drawn. Erase also
whatever chalk may be upon the board where the trees are desired,
and apply the irregular touches already given in drawing trees. Use
chalk or charcoal, according to the tone desired in trees, windows and
chimney. See stroke 3. See strokes on plate 16 and plate 12.

[Illustration: Plate 16 - see lesson on previous page--Plate 15]



PLATE 16


Study the strokes given on the previous page, plate 15, for suggestions
for sketching this cabin. Those at No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 will be
found helpful.

Use stroke 4, plate 15, for the outline of the roof and the sky, and
add the smooth vertical or horizontal strokes for the sides of the
building. Accent here and there with the point of the chalk and add
details in a similar manner, but avoid a definite outline. Let the
difference in tone make whatever outline is necessary.

After erasing the spots for doors and windows, add the strong dark
tones with a bit of charcoal. The details at 1 and 2 on the plate will
show how these are made. No. 3 shows the treatment for the roof.

After erasing for the trees, add a little charcoal and chalk, using
the strokes given in the lesson on trees, plate 12. The grass and the
details in the foreground may be added last. The sketch will readily
show the strokes necessary and the movement of the hand in making these
strokes.

[Illustration: Plate 17]



PLATE 17


Whenever I have made a sketch of this kind it has always given great
pleasure to the children, and proved of more or less value in history,
or in story-telling in the lower grades.

Stroke 1 illustrates the treatment for the sky and the horizon. A few
soft touches with the side of the chalk will indicate clouds. Blend
the white tone into the gray of the blackboard. The chalk is held
vertically and drawn across the board horizontally.

Next erase a spot or two for the sails and hull of the ship, and apply
stroke 2. This stroke is made by placing the chalk in an oblique
position and drawing a curving stroke downward, the end of the chalk
giving the outline of the sail. In the drawing at the left a graded
stroke was used, the eraser making the edge of the sail at the left and
the chalk at the right.

Stroke 3 is desirable in representing the ocean. It is made by placing
the chalk vertically upon the board and making a long, sweeping stroke,
accented with the upper end of the chalk. In these sketches charcoal
was used for the dark streaks in the water.

In drawing the hull of the ship, try stroke 4, using a short piece of
chalk or charcoal. The chalk is placed vertically and a curving stroke
is used with no particular accent. Add details with touches of chalk or
charcoal.

[Illustration: Plate 18]



PLATE 18


On plate 18 are suggestions for the month of March, or for geography,
history, or occupations and habits of the people.

Apply a few delicate, horizontal and curving strokes to the board; then
with a soft piece of cloth erase for the distance, as at No. 1. Use
stroke 2 for the sides of the windmill, stroke 3 for the wings, and
touches of charcoal for the windows.

Stroke 5, plate 3, will help in representing the foreground. Use
the chalk very delicately, accenting here and there with stronger
touches, and a vertical stroke now and then for the reflections in the
water--stroke 4.

The strokes illustrated on plates 2, 3, and 5 will be useful in
sketching the shores and other objects. Remember to allow the pressure
upon the chalk to indicate the outlines of objects, and never to add
definite marks with the point excepting for necessary details or high
lights.

[Illustration: Plate 19]



PLATE 19


This plate was planned as a review lesson, as well as to give
illustrations which teachers might use for a great variety of purposes.
All these strokes have been given before and are easily applied.

For the turkey, sketch lightly a circle; then with the side of the
chalk add broad, gray strokes. See No. 1. After this is done, add short
touches with the side of the chalk, for the wings, legs, feathers, etc.

Stroke 2 was given on plate 2, and, with the addition of the little
slanting and curving strokes here given, will produce the lighthouse.
This sketch will perhaps be useful in connection with plate 9, in
teaching the seacoast.

Strokes 3 and 4 are similar to those given on plate 5. They are made by
the use of curving strokes with the side of the chalk, the accent being
upon the end forming the outline. This stroke is frequently used, the
object to be drawn dictating the direction of the stroke. Apply these
strokes in drawing the rat, the chickens, the mushrooms and the frog.

In the tree sketch, a background of gray is first drawn with the side
of the chalk; then the strokes given on plate 6 are applied with
charcoal, and the snowflakes added with strong touches of white chalk.
If the candles are desired, omit the snow and use tiny strokes like
those at 5.

No. 6 is desirable in representing the nest. After 6 is drawn, add
stroke 4 for the eggs and finish the nest by using strong touches with
the point of the chalk.

[Illustration: Plate 20]



PLATE 20


The strokes on plate 20 are so well defined that it hardly seems
necessary to describe them. For 1 a short piece of chalk is used, the
side of the chalk giving the width of the line. At 2 the stroke is
similar, the accent being at one end of the chalk. At 3 the stroke is
slightly curving, the chalk being placed vertically, and the accent
being upon the upper end of the chalk. No. 4 is drawn by placing the
chalk vertically upon the board, drawing it downward very quickly
and twisting it to the horizontal position. Apply these strokes in
sketching the lobster. First use stroke 3, then touches like 2;
afterward strokes 1 and 4 for details.

No. 5 indicates the strokes first used in sketching the shells. In
drawing the outside of the nautilus, use a long piece of chalk and with
a curving stroke accented with the end, form the outline. With strokes
similar to those at 2, sketch the light streaks in the shell, and add
dark details with charcoal. Use the tip of the finger in softening the
tones here and there.

In drawing the section, sketch first the spiral curve, then the blended
strokes connecting the outer with the inner curves of the spiral, and
add charcoal for shadows.

The oyster shell is drawn by the use of the lower stroke at No. 5.
Make the stroke, accenting a little at the left end of the chalk; then
reverse the stroke, accenting with the right end, and add details with
chalk and charcoal.

[Illustration: Plate 21]



PLATE 21


The strokes and touches used upon plate 21 are more delicate than any
previously given, though similar in character. No. 1 is drawn with the
side of the chalk, the accent being with the left end. Allow the hand
to tremble a bit and the texture desired is more readily obtained.
Stroke 2 is produced in the same manner. After these are drawn add the
shades, stems, and leaf with charcoal, and high lights with touches of
white chalk.

Stroke 3 is exactly like that at No. 2, plate 20, though drawn with
a much smaller piece of chalk. A series of these strokes, with the
addition of touches with the charcoal and point of the chalk, as
indicated in the sketch, will produce the caterpillar.

Strokes 4 and 5 are valuable in sketching a butterfly or moth. They
are gray strokes with the side of the chalk, the pressure being upon
the end forming the outline. In work of this kind study nature very
carefully, as no sketch or copy can do what nature can for the teacher.
After the general form of the butterfly is drawn with these light gray
strokes, add the details, using touches of chalk or charcoal, and
occasionally blending them with the tip of the finger.

[Illustration: Plate 22]



PLATE 22


A very few lines will often indicate the pose or action of an animal.
Try lines similar to those at 1; study other animals and try a few
characteristic lines. See No. 1 for the squirrel and for the fish.

After practicing the pose, try 2 without sketching the lines with the
point of the chalk, but by using the side, as in previous sketches. To
finish the sketch add the few details necessary, as shown in the other
drawings.

The strokes used in these sketches are given on several other plates.
They are produced by using the side of about two-thirds of a stick of
chalk, and by accenting or letting the pressure be greatest at the
end of the chalk which is to form the outline. This type of stroke is
perhaps most evident where the pressure was upon the left end of the
chalk, as in the squirrel’s back.

See also stroke 4, plate 3, and strokes upon plate 5.

[Illustration: Plate 23]



PLATE 23


The strokes used in the birds are exactly like those described in the
previous lesson.

Sketch first an egg shape, No. 1, using half or two-thirds of a stick
of chalk, and pressing a bit upon the outer end, letting the stroke
blend into the board.

Add to this a few blended strokes representing the form and position of
head, tail and wing. The sketches at 2, 3 and 4 indicate upon which end
of the chalk the pressure should come. Be careful to keep the delicate
gray or middle tones.

After such drawings as those at 2, 3 and 4 are made, then add the
characteristic details with the chalk and charcoal. It will be seen by
studying these finished drawings that only a few touches are necessary
to complete the sketches.

In order to obtain a contrast between the background and the head of
the bird in the lower sketch, a little chalk was massed upon the board
as a background. See plate 12.

[Illustration: The Birch-tree.

  On the brink of some wood-nestled lakelet.

  Lowell--


  I thought the sparrow’s note from heaven,
  Singing at dawn on the alder bough.

  Emerson

Plate 24]



PLATE 24


These sketches are drawn as illustrations for literature, but would be
quite as useful in some other studies.

The strokes at 1, 2 and 3 are those used in the tree sketch; 1 is
obtained by two strokes of the chalk, placed vertically upon the board
and accented by a pressure upon the lower end. These strokes give the
sky and the hills in the distance. The use of the eraser and a few
blended strokes like those at 2 will help in sketching the tree trunks.
See plate 2. After these are done, add stroke 3, and with it mass the
foliage. See suggestions on plate 12. The point of land in the distance
and a few of the branches are added with charcoal.

Study the lesson on plate 23 before sketching the sparrow. Stroke 4 is
made with a single broad mark of charcoal, and the addition of tiny
touches with the chalk. The branch is drawn in a similar manner, and
the background is added by a few soft and delicate touches with the
side of the chalk.

[Illustration: Plate 25

  Beautiful lily, dwelling by still rivers,
      Or solitary mere,
  Or where the sluggish meadow-brook delivers
      Its waters to the weir----

  _Longfellow._]



PLATE 25


This plate was used as an illustration for Longfellow’s
“Flower-de-luce.” The pond-lily may be used in nature study or as an
illustration for some poem.

The strokes necessary or useful in drawing these bits are shown at
No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3. At No. 1 the chalk is placed in an oblique
position, drawn gradually downward, and at the same time twisted to the
horizontal position at the middle of the stroke. Try this stroke in a
great variety of positions. The spots produced will be found useful in
much of the flower and leaf drawing. Apply these in the fleur-de-lis.

The strokes at 2 for the leaves were given and described on plate 4,
and may be appropriated wherever reeds or grasses are to be drawn.

Stroke 3 is simple, yet often found troublesome by pupils. Place the
chalk in a vertical position, draw it quickly downward, twisting it to
a nearly horizontal position. Let the accent be at the upper end of the
stroke. Try a number of these strokes, letting them meet at the centre
of the flower. In making the drawing of the pond-lily, accent the
nearest petals.

The reflection in the water, and the reeds in the background are
obtained by delicate vertical strokes, crossed in the water by
occasional horizontal touches. Use simple curving strokes for the lily
pads.

[Illustration: Plate 26

  “This castle hath a pleasant seat.”

  ----our castle’s strength
  Will laugh a siege to scorn.

  Shakespeare.]



PLATE 26


Here is given another literature illustration, which is drawn with such
strokes as those indicated in the upper part of the plate.

Stroke 1 has been described many times already. After this is drawn
indicate the distance by the use of a few touches with charcoal, and
the water with a delicate line or two of chalk. Let the strokes be
horizontal.

The rocks are represented with such strokes as No. 3. See also plate 9,
stroke 3. Accent here and there for the light touches, and add bits of
charcoal for the dark.

Stroke 2 is drawn by placing the chalk in a vertical position, and
drawing it in the desired direction with a rather irregular or uneven
stroke. See stroke 3, plate 15. When the strong, bright tones are
desired, accent with the chalk, and when the gray tones are necessary,
hardly touch the board. The windows are added with strong strokes of
charcoal.

[Illustration: Plate 27]



PLATE 27


This plate was planned especially for arithmetic lessons, as it shows
in the sketches the various processes through which the cotton passes
before reaching the retailer, thus suggesting a number of practical
problems. It may be used quite as well in geography, history, and
nature study.

Spot 1 is produced by massing a bit of chalk and then rubbing it into
the desired shape by the use of the finger tip. The pod is drawn with a
short stick of charcoal, used in the same manner as the chalk.

No. 2 shows the stroke for the sky and horizon, and has already been
described in many other lessons.

To produce the effect shown at No. 3 use the side of a short piece of
chalk, and with a rather irregular stroke draw the twigs and stems.
Accent the spots for the cotton balls.

In the other small sketches the strokes are so evident that they
hardly need description. A white, smooth sky, erased where the mills
and chimneys appear, will produce the effect in the lowest drawing. A
little charcoal may be added for the darkest tones, a stroke of the
eraser for the smoke, and little touches of chalk for the windows.

[Illustration: Plate 28]



PLATE 28


These sketches were also suggested for problems in arithmetic. The
problems relate to lumbering, measurement, and commission.

No. 1 illustrates the beginning of a forest sketch. With a single
stroke of the chalk, accented at the lower end, draw the sky. With a
second more delicate stroke show the distance; then with a few quick,
nearly vertical strokes with the eraser show the positions of the
trees. Later with chalk or charcoal and the use of such strokes as
those given on plate 2, and at No. 3 on this plate, add the shading in
the tree trunks.

No. 2 shows the strokes useful in drawing the camp, the wood pile, or
the lumber. These have already been given in such sketches as those on
plate 15.

The sketch of the house in the original had the dimensions marked upon
it, and the pupils were to find the shingles required for the roof, the
clapboards for the walls, etc.

Before trying this sketch, study plates 15 and 16 for strokes and
details.

[Illustration: Plate 29]



PLATE 29


The accompanying plate was taken from a lesson in a first grade. The
little boy was dressed in an impromptu costume of cotton batting, and
the background hastily sketched by the teacher.

The horizon was drawn as on plate 9; then a few soft oblique
strokes were added to the sky. The shore was drawn with irregular
back-and-forth strokes, as in many of the previous sketches, and a
sheet was tacked to the board in order to obtain the white foreground.

An almost vertical stroke accented with the end of the chalk was used
in drawing the icebergs, and a few strokes of charcoal were added.

The huts were drawn with a curving stroke accented with the upper end
of the chalk, and they were finished by applying stroke 2, plate 3, and
adding a few details with the point of the chalk.

Any teacher can easily arrange such backgrounds and costumes with
the simplest material at hand, and in this manner add essentially
to the interest and value of a lesson. A Japanese Day, An Indian
Entertainment, A Soldiers’ Camp Ground, A Lumber Camp, and many others,
are easily arranged.



Transcriber’s Notes

In a few cases, obvious mistakes or omissions in punctuation were
corrected.

Page 31: “The goldenrod on plate 12” changed to “The goldenrod on plate
13”

Page 36: The illustration caption “see lesson on previous page—Plate
14” changed to “see lesson on previous page—Plate 15” to reflect to
correct plate as per the text, though the text within the image is
incorrect.



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