The First Drawing

The First Drawing

If you’re on the hunt for a captivating story that ignites the imagination of young minds, look no further than Mordicai Gerstein's "The First Drawing." This delightful book is a treasure trove for primary school teachers and home educators, blending history, art, and storytelling into an engaging package. It’s perfect for sparking creativity in your little learners!

Mordicai Gerstein, a masterful storyteller and illustrator, takes us on a journey back to the dawn of human creativity. The plot revolves around a young boy who might have been the first person ever to create a drawing, inspired by the caves of Chauvet-Pont-d'Arc in France. Gerstein’s vibrant illustrations and gentle prose bring this prehistoric adventure to life, making it a fantastic tool to teach children about the origins of art and the power of imagination.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! "The First Drawing" opens up endless educational possibilities. Use it as a springboard for fun activities like creating your own cave drawings, discussing the evolution of art, or even exploring early human history in an interactive way. With Gerstein’s book, you’re not just teaching art or history – you’re nurturing a lifelong love for creativity and discovery. So, grab "The First Drawing" and watch your students’ imaginations soar to new heights!

Author: Mordical Gerstein

Mordicai (November 24, 1935 – September 24, 2019) was a renowned American artist, writer, and film director, best known for his work as an author and illustrator of children's books. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Gerstein developed a love for art and literature from an early age, influenced by his parents' interests in painting, books, and playwriting.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Little, Brown Young Readers
  • Format: Hardback
  • Print length: 40 pages
  • Dimensions: 22.86 x 1.27 x 28.83 cm
  • Reading age: 6-10 years old
  • Publication date: 26 Sept. 2013
  • ISBN: 978-0316204781

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How can "The First Drawing" help in teaching this KS2 History "Stone, Bronze & Iron Ages" lesson?

Author: Mordical Gerstein

"The First Drawing," a book by the renowned author and illustrator Mordical Gerstein, can be a valuable resource for teaching the KS2 History topic on the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages. Here’s how it can enhance the lesson:

Engagement with Prehistoric Themes: Visual Storytelling: The illustrations in "The First Drawing" can captivate students' attention and spark their imagination about prehistoric life. This aligns well with lessons on early human creativity and the significance of cave art during the Stone Age, helping students visualize the era's cultural expressions.

Connection to Historical Context: Cave Art Exploration: The book’s focus on drawing parallels nicely with discussions about cave art, such as that found in Lascaux or Altamira. Lessons could include examining how early humans used art to communicate and document their lives, which is crucial for understanding societal development from the Stone Age onward.

Promoting Critical Thinking: Discussion Prompts: Teachers can use the narrative to encourage students to think critically about what it means to create art. Questions could include: "What do you think this drawing tells us about the people who made it?" This fosters analytical skills as students compare their interpretations with archaeological findings from the Stone Age.

Integration with Other Subjects: Cross-Curricular Opportunities: The themes in "The First Drawing" can be integrated into art lessons, where students might create their own cave art inspired by the book. This not only reinforces historical concepts but also allows for creative expression, making learning more holistic.

Supporting Historical Inquiry: Archaeological Evidence: The book can serve as a springboard for discussions about how historians and archaeologists interpret artifacts and drawings from prehistoric times. Students can learn about the limitations of these interpretations and how they shape our understanding of history.

Incorporating "The First Drawing" into KS2 lessons on the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages not only enriches the learning experience but also helps students connect emotionally and intellectually with the subject matter.

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