What Reviewers Say

Consistent praise highlights the 'Draw the World' series as an exceptionally effective tool for geographical retention, with reviewers like Cathy Duffy noting its simple 'scribble map' method that makes complex geography approachable for all skill levels. Users across the Well-Trained Mind forums and The Homeschool Mom emphasize that the step-by-step instructions allow students to draw entire continents from memory, a feat often missed by traditional workbook-based programs. While feedback is overwhelmingly positive regarding student engagement, there are trade-offs: the program is strictly a supplement and lacks cultural or political history. Some parents note that while it is designed for independence, younger students or those with limited fine-motor skills may require initial parental guidance to avoid frustration. Ultimately, it is hailed as a low-stress, high-impact way to master map work.

How It Works

A parent and child sit down at the kitchen table with the instruction book, blank paper, and pencils. The parent guides the child through a series of step-by-step 'scribbles' and shapes that gradually build into a recognizable map of a continent or the entire world. Each session is short, typically lasting 15 to 20 minutes, and focuses on practicing one specific region or adding new details to a previously learned map. The goal is for the child to repeat the drawing until they can recreate it entirely from memory without looking at the book. Once the borders are mastered, the child finishes the session by adding labels for major landmarks or coloring the map with colored pencils.

Switching to This?

There are no formal placement tests or diagnostics for this series because it is a flexible supplement rather than a sequential grade-level curriculum. Most families begin with either 'Draw the USA' or 'Draw the World' to learn the publisher's specific 'scribble' method before moving on to detailed continent-specific books like 'Draw Europe.' Families can easily start this program mid-year or even during summer break since each book is a standalone project that does not require prior geographical knowledge. If you are switching from a program that uses pre-printed maps for labeling, expect your child to experience a learning curve as they transition from passive identification to active, free-hand drawing. Because it is highly visual and kinesthetic, most parents find that students can jump into their age-appropriate book regardless of their previous geography experience.

Curriculum Details

Price

$19 - $143

Individual books in the 'Draw the World' series are typically $19.95 each. Discounted bundles for the entire series are available.

Grades

3 - 12

Available As

Print Digital

Coverage

Supplement

Subjects

History/Social Studies Art

---

Pacing

Self-paced

Parent Time

5-15 min/day

Parent Involvement

None

Student Independence

Semi-independent

---

Academic Level

Grade level

Worldview

Neutral

Teach Multiple Ages

Yes

Engaging for Reluctant Learners

Yes

Videos

How This Compares

Compared to 'Mapping the World with Art' by Ellen McHenry, the ARTK12 series is much more streamlined and focuses purely on the drawing process, whereas McHenry’s program includes deep dives into history and science that require more parent preparation. When weighed against Memoria Press Geography, 'Draw the World' emphasizes spatial awareness and shape recognition rather than the rote memorization of country capitals and flags found in traditional workbooks. Parents choosing between this and 'Trail Guide to World Geography' will find that the 'Draw' series requires much less outside research and atlas work, making it a better fit for families who want a low-prep, artistic approach. Compared to 'Simply Charlotte Mason’s Visits to...' series, which uses living books to build a cultural connection to places, ARTK12 is strictly a technical tool for mastering physical map boundaries. Ultimately, this curriculum is chosen by parents who find that their children struggle to remember where countries are located unless they physically draw the borders themselves.

Getting Started