The first graphics program we used in class was Appleworks Draw.  This was my first experience with Appleworks; however, I have used Microsoft Paint and Adobe Photoshop for graphic editing but never simply drawing.  Drawing programs create mathematical equations of the space.  Each shape or line added to the space is a separate object and works independently.  This means that each object can to the "canvas" can be deleted, moved, or altered separately.

In our mask project, we started with a simple drawing.  I used set and freeform shapes to create my first image.  We then needed to make two different changes to the mask, using color, gradients, and textures.  In this activity I learned to alter the gradient tool and customize with color and lighting.  I love this feature of Appleworks, and with more practice I think it can really make a difference in using the tool more creatively.