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| Source: ASIDE 2017 |
We’ve built our mission on the idea that making learning visible through design
changes they way learners view content. The examples in this post by our first
graders illustrate just how important design was in providing a context for their
Arctic animal research. This was our youngest group to tackle creating
infographics, and boy, did they do a great job.
This crop of little designers followed a set of guidelines set up by our colleague
Stephanie Temple (
@stemple3) to organize the information. The process allowed them to
follow step-by-step instructions regarding font selection, number of
pictures, and factual information. Of course, choice meant that the students
could personalize their work once they completed the basic criteria. Several
capable students also took it upon themselves to do more; this provided an
added level of differentiation.
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| Source: ASIDE 2017 |
Using
infographics offers students an opportunity to display their research in a visual
representation that can be easily understood. Students from
second through eighth grade know this process, and we’re happy to say that we’ve added first
grade into the mix. In fact, by the time they hit middle school, it becomes
routine. They learn to critique each other for contrast, layout, typography, and more.
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| Source: ASIDE 2017 |
We keep the elements and principles of design posted in our classrooms and also electronically on their student portal. As a result, we frequently hear students
helping others on different projects using what they’ve learned. It’s just what
we want;
thinking visibly becomes second nature.
