Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Artistic Pursuits: Senior High Level 1, A TOS Review

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As a member of the TOS Homeschool crew, this year I am reviewing many homeschooling products that I have received for free. I am not paid to say nice things about the products, but I am obligated to use the product with my boys and share my honest opinions with you. 

What is it?

Artistic Pursuits, Senior High Book One is a comprehensive art program created for high school students to complete independently. This program, written by Brenda Ellis, skillfully exposes the student to four facets of art in each lesson. It is a weekly course designed for the student to build a visual vocabulary, learn art appreciation and history, practice a technique and do a project applying the knowledge learned in the previous lessons. This first semester course students will need some art supplies that most home school families own. You can read The author's philosophy on teaching art here.

Artistic Pursuits has created 10 books for students beginning at the preschool level and finishing up with 2 high school courses.


What we thought about it!

Paperboy was excited to begin this book. He has always enjoyed drawing on his own. This course could work well in a group setting, but is perfect for the lone artist.

The inclusion of European art history was right up his alley. The assignment to draw a scene from St. George and the Dragon was a perfect lesson for any teenage boy. Of course, Mom would love a still life of a bowl of fruit, but maybe next time. Paperboy loved the way the book was directed at him. There is no teacher manual, thus no need for Mom to be over his shoulder instructing him in the ways of fine art. He gave it a thumbs up!

What does Mom think about it?

I was really impressed with the variety of each lesson. Brenda Ellis has an incredible ability to tie in so many layers of learning in a simple art lesson. Not only does this book teach students art and techniques, it teaches student the necessary skills of observation. The objectives of each lesson are stated and I appreciate the Look Back questions. The student must reflect on if their project included the elements of the lesson.

Using Senior High Book One and Book Two will definitely fulfill the requirements for two credits in fine arts. At the end of the book, there are specific instruction for grading work, offering credit and building a portfolio.The portfolio that Paperboy is working on will be something to treasure for years.

How can you get your hands on this book?

This and the other 9 books in the series are available from the website Artistic Pursuits. This 89 page book sells for $42.95. It is non-consumable, which means you can reuse it with other students. How thrifty is that? You will need some basic supplies such as various drawing pencils, pads, a vinyl eraser and a metal sharpener for this course.

Don't take my word for it. Listen to what other homeschool bloggers have said about Artistic Pursuits here. They had the opportunity to try different levels and some have even showcased their students work.

Thanks for stopping by,

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1 comment:

ssmurray5 said...

Sounds great. I would love to see his rendition of St George and the Dragon.