Dr. Jane Montero

Nine-panel digital collages incorporating studentsʼ interests.

At the beginning of a new semester or school year, art teachers have an excellent opportunity to get to know our students through storytelling. National Geographic’s online education website states, “Storytelling is universal and is as ancient as humankind. Before there was writing, there was storytelling” (para. 1, 2024). Students of all ages can tell their stories visually using a variety of materials.

As an introduction to visual communication through design, my students create digital compositions using graphic elements. By using symbols and images found in digital design programs, students can focus on design concepts (balance, unity, repetition, color, etc.) without having to worry about their drawing skills. Students are proud of the results and enthusiastically share their finished pieces with each other.

Asking Questions
Starting this project requires students to generate a quick list based on the following questions, which can be modified to suit your students:

1. What is your favorite animal?
2. What are your favorite activities?
3. Where would you like to travel or visit?
4. What career would you like to have someday?
5. What are your favorite foods or types of food?

Preview Mode - Subscribe to unlock full content