Improving Writing Skills With Art Journaling Jr – Plan Before You Write

Do you have a reluctant writer or one who could use help to improve their writing skills? This unique combination of writing and art is a fun and creative way to improve writing skills in your 8-12 year old learner. This class is a part of a series of courses that can be taken in any order. 

Each meeting will include a new writing lesson with hands on activities that focus on steps taken before writing to improve the final outcome and a new art technique used in journaling. We will also discuss the week’s theme based on a quote, an adage or a poem.  During class learners will create unique artwork inspired by their own thoughts and feelings about the theme. At home, between classes, learners will use their new writing skills to write, edit, and proofread  a journal writing to correspond with the art and incorporate it into their journal. 

Priority will be placed on developing creative confidence in both writing and visual arts. Students will be encouraged to share their art and writing with the class and consider how the class lessons could be used to improve their work.

Week 1 - Brainstorming
Week 2 – Mind Mapping
Week 3 - Outlining
Week 4 - Information Organization

Suggested Supplies: 
•	A heavy weight (115# or more) 9"X12" watercolor spiral journal
•	Watercolor paint set
•	Assorted paint brushes
•	Water cup and paper towel
•	Pencil, eraser and sharpener
•	Writing paper
•	Glue stick
•	Assorted Gel pens (optional)
•	Stencils with repeating shapes (optional)
•	Rubber stamps with ink pad (optional)
•	Hairdryer for drying layers of paint (optional)