This book presents very basic but important concepts about architecture and outlines some of the most important concepts used by great architects. These concepts are taught at levels of perceptual maturity applicable to adults and children alike and progress from levels one through seven as the concepts become progressively intertwined. The position is taken that the lay public has not grown much beyond the fourth grade level in visual literacy. Visual literacy is the ability to 'read and write' visual images as witnessed in the environment. Two issues of protecting the built environment through preservation and making the new environment a beautiful one are addressed. The lessons in the book have an educational, developmental sequence focusing on the concepts of: (1) likenesses and differences; (2) order; (3) similes; and (4) creative and productive thinking. Each level/activity has an accompanying visual time line to demonstrate the lesson's concept. Historic recognition of periods and styles of architecture comprises a large portion of the book. (EH)