Schools and Libraries

Karen Patkau (pronounced “PAT-co”) shares two passions in her presentations. One is her love of nature. The other is the art of the picture book. Karen aims to educate and entertain, as well as to give children and teachers insight into the creative process. She would love to come to your school or library. For more information about her visits or to buy books contact  Karen.

 

Topics

1. READING / RETELLING / DRAWING – JK to Grade 1 with Reading Buddies
This session includes a reading of One Hungry Heron and a retelling/drawing activity that incorporates math, language and visual art ­– OR – two half-session readings for two groups of students without reading buddies.

2.  WHO NEEDS AN ECOSYSTEM? – PowerPoint Presentation for Grades 2 to 5
This session includes a presentation based on Karen’s Ecosystem Series: Who Needs a SWAMP?, Who Needs an ICEBERG?, Who Needs a JUNGLE?, Who Needs a DESERT?, Who Needs a PRAIRIE? and Who Needs a REEF?  Students will discover how each ecosystem is a remarkable community of living things interacting with its unique environment and a contributor of life-sustaining services for the whole planet.

3. HOW A PICTURE BOOK IS MADE – PowerPoint Presentation for Grades 3 to 6
This session includes a presentation about the picture book illustration process and a drawing activity. Students will learn what it takes to illustrate picture books and the specifics of illustrating nonfiction. They will then analyze the composition of a landscape, draw their own scene and add imaginary elements to make a Magical Landscape. Pencils, erasers, paper and clipboards are required.

 

Venues, Equipment and Details

• Karen can present in a classroom, library, auditorium or gymnasium.
• Sessions are 45 to 60 minutes in length.
• PowerPoint presentations for Grades 2 to 6 are on a USB Flash Drive.
• A dark room, computer, digital projector, screen, display table and chair are required for PowerPoint presentations.
• Presentations to Grades JK to 1 are without AV equipment. Chartpaper, a stand and a wall to tape up drawings are required. Students require copies of handouts, drawing materials, tables and chairs.
• Karen has her own voice amplifier for small rooms, but prefers a microphone for large venues.
• A ten-minute alert before the end of a session is requested.