writing instruments [2]![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
The first true writing instruments were made by the Sumerians in Mesopotamia nearly 5,000 years ago.
mechanical pencil ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Instrument that is made up of a slender tube containing a fine piece of lead; pressing the thrust button moves the lead forward.
fountain pen ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Instrument with a metal nib that is attached to a body containing an ink reservoir, usually in the form of a cartridge.
air hole ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Opening through which air enters the pen to maintain atmospheric pressure.
barrel ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Part that supports the nib and contains the reservoir that supplies the ink.
cap ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Screw end that covers the nib when the pen is not in use.
nib ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Curved writing point fitted with a device to supply ink.
marker ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Bevel-tipped color felt pen of variable size.
pencil ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Writing instrument made up of a casing of soft wood around a graphite lead; it can be sharpened easily.