I have an assignment at the beginning ofd the year where my students study themselves and really think about who they want to be and what their Artistic Identity is. I have found that giving this assignment to the students helps them to let go of barriers and also gets to feel more comfortable to their self-expression in my class. They really respond positively to the assignment and I think it helps to set the tone for the year and also get them excited about who they are as an artist. I wanted to share my assignment and also give you all permission to use it if you would like.
Here is the presentation to get them thinking:
Artistic Identity on Prezi
Here is the handout to help the students begin thinking and also define the assignment:
Enjoy!
I know how you feel Marc. That section also gave me an “Aha” moment. I too realized that I was on the right track with my students. The reading has given me even more ideas to incorporate into my delivery of instruction and how I help to heighten the awareness of my students. The Prezi is a really nice touch. I can see that it will get the students to critically think about their lives and why they do what they do the way they do it. I also think that your “Artistic Identity” assignment is excellent. It incorporates several activities that address different levels of learning. Well done.
ReplyDeleteOoo I really like this! How wonderful. I had little moment with my students during the week when we did an improve exercise in creating a mini-movie. As the students started the activity, one pair was completely stoic, void of any creativity. I always wonder how that can be. I have always had such a vivid imagination that I find it hard to understand when students say, "I have no imagination." So maybe something like this can help them find their inner creator.
ReplyDeleteMarc, I definitely related to the Michelangelo metaphor as well. I love the presentation about artistic identity. With so much standardization in school it's nice to see someone fostering that creative spark. So much of what gets kids into trouble can lie in esteem issues. Art of all kinds has an amazing way of instilling confidence in learners.
ReplyDelete"Chip away at the stone!" "Just another brick in the wall." These were the lyrics I heard in high school. I certainly needed someone to see me as an A, and I needed a teacher to guide me; however, even for teachers, they only see "what you have done for me lately." I appreciate your insight and the opportunity that you give your students to shine and develop their creativity and self-expression. Your students are very fortunate to have you, and I hope they appreciate you.
ReplyDeleteWonderful work, I can see why and how your students might respond so positively.
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