What is an appropriate image choice for your students?
Yes and no. Out of the four kindergarten classes that viewed the images, the only class that did not say game, play, or ring around the rosie was my VTS focus class. The painting was easy read by all, and some of the students really liked focusing on the figures in the distance. I thought at first that an image of play would be easily read, but I did not take into account that kindergartners generally play alongside peers, not with peers.
Did the image motivate rigorous and engaging discussions for students?
Yes. Many of my students went beyond listing and describing, and started to interpret cause and effect relationships with in the artworks. The reading of space is still difficult for this group, so it made for interesting statements by some.
As an aside, on the first day I sequenced the images painting first, sculpture second. The second day, I reversed the sequence. I think the discussions on the second day got more to the connection of the meaning between the artworks. One student even commented that the painting was showing the children on the right side after they tripped and fell (not from my VTS group, though). I do not know why the change in sequence seemed to work.
What worked?
Even though my focus class was the only one not to come to the conclusion of a game, they did not movement, cause and effect, postures, gestures, and facial expression.
Was the image rich enough to encourage continued discussion?
For some yes, others no. This is why I must figure out the differentiation for those who want to keep talking.
Exploring the BIG IDEA through artmaking
Though I am unsure of the adequacy of by Big Idea, and I am sure it will change, I think the viewing will help spur aluminum foil sculptures based on the artworks.
Reflect on the image and the VTS discussion
Since I don't know if I will keep my current big idea, maybe I would keep this image, but probably start with an image of a child playing alone or alongside others, such as
The Little Girl Who Did Not Care, by Maria Izquierdo
Cat and Kittens, artist unknown
Painting Lesson With Cat and Kittens, by Henriette Ronner-Knip
I love your big idea, your concepts and your images. The pictures that you have chosen are quite impressive, but I must ask are they telling a story, or are they depicting a certain moment in time? I am a specifics guy. In other words, I try to be as specific as possible when trying to prove a point or teach a lesson. It has been a true hindrance to my VTSing, because I get to specific at times. I am offering a suggestion to you. When trying to address the topic Artists Tell Stories, how about looking at it more like "artists capture moments in time that carry a story with them."
ReplyDeleteThis might help you become more specific in your choices of work. Also, how about using a sequence of paintings from multiple artists that are about that particular story or instance?
Also, as a comic book LOVER and a lover of Illustration, maybe try some sequential art when trying to portray a story.
Keep at it! Yours is one of the best!