Art-based responses to required reading in higher ed

Dr. Laurie Gatlin, Associate Professor of Art Education

California State University, Long Beach

Introduction – First Reading

Students are asked to bring in 3 index cards as a

response – they share with 3 other students

Drawing

Students watch a video and get a handout of the 21 formats they can use –and I encourage them to try something that stretches their skills

Fortune Teller

We fold a practice fortune teller ( or “cootie catcher”) in class – and they can either use that or make another

out of other types of paper

Paper OrbStudents are given the template on cardstock, then they are to take 3 ideas from the reading, or 3 personal examples drawn from the reading.

They are given a video to assemble it, but can also assemble in class if they need assistance.

HexaFlexagon

Students are instructed to read the article and write four main ideas from the article. Or they can write one idea and come up with 3 different examples.

They are given the cardstock template and do images on the numbered triangles (from a diagram on the whiteboard).

We assemble this one in class – although I also send a how-to video for those who are ready to try it on their own.

SkitEach student writes a scenario based on an example from the reading. This may be straight from the reading, or they can interpret into a different scenario

They are put in groups of 3-4, they each discuss the scenario, then design stick puppets and a background, then act out the scene for the class

Zine

We fold a practice 8-page zine in class, then they can transform that either

using the same paper, or using another type of paper

Scavenger Hunt

Pin/Badges

Students receive 3 - 2.5” circles to do a drawing or image on based on

the reading.

La Loteria/Tarot Card

We will look at the iconic images in tarot

cards as well as la loteria cards, and

students will design a card from either set

based on an interpretation of the

reading

Extended Readings

Group Reading Strategies

• Reading a book for Art & Technology

• No individual grades for this assignment• “How do I hold a group discussion

knowing that most of my students will not have read all the required text?”

Strategy #1Divide the reading into 4 parts – give large sheet of paper, markers and several tasks for each group:

• 5 main points of the section

• 1 short summary of the section

• 1 memorable quote

• 1 drawing

• 1 question to pose

Strategy #2Divide reading into sections. Give each group a section, along with a choice of “styles”

Materials for each group: die cut people (for puppets), sticks, and a sheet of paper for background. Glue, colored paper, markers.

Sports figuresMovie setConspiracy TheoristsAnimals at the ZooSilicon Valley types

(tech folks)The BacheloretteExplorersScooby DoZombies

The MuppetsKindergarteners/preschoolersDownton Abbey/butlers, maids Sherlock Holmes/Detectives

Star TrekStar WarsHarry PotterSuperHeroesPrison

Assignment: create a summary in in the form of a skit, using your choice of style from the ones given to you. Create a scene and the actors with the materials.

Horror filmClownsWrestlersCatsArtistsRap GroupFood itemsDogs