- This photo could be used in the classroom to reinforce a lesson on time-management.PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
The classroom comes to life for students when visual images are used to reinforce lesson ideas. In February of 2011, "History Teacher" recommended using a three-step approach when presenting visual images in the classroom. Each step is a statement written by the teacher to accompany the image. Step one is a literal interpretation of what can be seen in the image. Step two offers an interpretation of the image and step three is an analysis of the ideas and/or contexts surrounding the image. Step three can also include references to the intentions of the image's creator. Research shows that visual images and an accompanying three-step approach improves student understanding.
A three-step approach to the picture to the right is as follows: Step 1 - A teenager on a couch with a book, a remote, and a phone. Step 2 - The teenager is multi-tasking. Step 3 - Teenagers are pulled in many directions and they must do more than one thing at a time. - DIY kits are effective teaching aids within elementary schools because they allow students to learn through a hands-on approach. According to "Teaching Science," classroom DIY kits can be borrowed or purchased for classroom use. When selecting a DIY kit, look for a kit with organized, clear labels and storage places. Also, consider the kit's targeted grade level and a photographic guide to the kit's materials and steps.
- An alphabet book is a book which uses words and pictures to display the entire alphabet. The book will include both capital and lowercase letters along with appropriate illustrations to help students learn the letters of the alphabet. Alphabet books may also focus on selected vowels and/or consonants, keywords, or letters. "Reading Teacher" promotes alphabet books as a way to teach students letter features, names, and sounds. Research has found that alphabet books are often more effective than traditional story books at teaching the alphabet.
- According to "Science Activities," posters visually stimulate students and provide repeated exposure to important material on a daily basis. Classroom posters can help visual learners remember key ideas and reinforce material presented by the teacher. Since posters often incorporate both text and illustration, students tend to find the posters interesting. Teachers can choose to make posters themselves or purchase ready-made posters at teaching-supply stores or online.
