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Lettering

In the 5 lessons of this 32-minute module Norman Campbell demonstrates lettering exercises which can increase hand-eye coordination, observation skills, and drawing ability.

In this gif, an artist traces a calligraphy alphabet written in pencil with a calligraphy pen.

Materials
Needed

  • pencil

  • colored pencils

  • fine or medium tip marker

  • ruler

  • paper

  • calligraphy pen

  • reference & practice pages linked with individual lessons

Lessons

Lesson 1. Sharpening Observation Skills through Lettering

[length 7:46] Norman Campbell introduces the benefits of lettering exercises in the classroom. He leads an activity in which you draw one large letter of the Roman alphabet and instructs you in adding embellishments in the style of illuminated letters.

Supplementary Resources:

  1. Roman Letters (PDF)

Lesson 2. Symbols Inside Letters

[length 3:56] Norman Campbell leads you through the observational drawing of the outline of a block letter. He then discusses different scenarios in which symbols may be used to fill in the outline.

Supplementary Resources:

  1. Block Letters (PDF)

Lesson 3. One & Two Point Perspective in Lettering

[length 4:38] In this lesson, Norman Campbell explains how the use of vanishing points and strategic line placement creates the illusion of depth for block letters.

Supplementary Resources:

  1. Block Letters (PDF)

Lesson 4. Modern Calligraphy 

[length 6:31] Norman Campbell introduces an artistic style of lettering he refers to as "Modern Calligraphy." He demonstrates the steps by writing an enlarged version of the word Peace in cursive, thickening key downstroke areas, and then using a fine tipped marker to outline and fill.

Supplementary Resources:

  1. Modern Calligraphy Example (PDF)

Lesson 5. Itallic Calligraphy 

[length 8:23] This video features a deeper investigation of calligraphy. Norman Campbell discusses the logistics of letter formation and pen control, as well as the mindfulness offered through calligraphy exercises.

Supplementary Resources:

  1. Capital Calligraphy Directions (PDF) 

  2. Lowercase Calligraphy Letters (PDF) 

  3. Practice Sheet 1 (PDF) 

  4. Practice Sheet 2 (PDF) 

This video is intended for professional learning by educators in the Sitka School District.  It is not to be downloaded, copied, shared, or misused.  Copyright 2023 Sitka School District. All rights reserved.

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Sitka, Alaska 99835

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