Before we start analyzing some of the world's most famous photos I will start with an assignment that is less daunting. Each child must bring in a photograph of their family. It is less daunting because everyone has a family photo and everyone can say something about it. It is a good way for students to get to know each other. It is totally open to them what they picture they choose to bring in. I ask only that they be in the picture. It can be of any time period, any event, or quite simply, a snapshot. I have done this project before as a way for kids to get to know each other. Some kids brought in a photo from their 8th grade graduation, some brought in posed family photos taken at Sears, while others brought in worn and cherished little snaps of themselves with a younger brother, perhaps.
Students should tape the photo onto a larger piece of paper and write their analysis of it under the photo. These are nice to hang up in the classroom as a reminder that we all came from somewhere and we all share common themes in our lives. I also participate in this project in order to humanize myself a bit. I have found that kids like to know a little something about their teacher. It helps break down barriers and create a more comfortable space between us.
Then each student should try to analyze their relationship to their family using the photo they have. The following questions will be helpful:
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· Who is in the picture with them?
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· Where is the picture taken?
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· What is their relationship with the person in their photo?
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· How old were they in the photo?
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· What memories both good and bad does the photograph hold for them?
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· Why did they choose this photo?
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· Some photo interpretation should be encouraged as well. For example if someone has their arm around them is it out of protection or out of trying to hold them into the family. They may analyze their entire relationship to their family or just focus on their emotions on the day the picture was taken.