Writing about Visual Art

Above: Banksy Mural, "The Birth of the World" by Joan Miro

Take a photograph, painting, or other visual work of art, and write about it. Begin by answering these questions:

1. Observations: What specific details do you see? What do you know for sure? What are some questions you have?

2. Inferences: What do the specific details mean? What conclusions can you make about the text/work of art?

3. Interpretation: Based on these observations and inferences, what does the text/work of art mean overall? What is the writer's or artist's overall purpose and message?

4. Extension: What does the work of art mean to you? Write a poem, essay, short story, or synthesis page for it. 

Childhood Memories

As 8th graders, you are at the crossroads of childhood and adulthood. But as you move forward in your lives, it is important to relish in and reflect on your past. Let's read a poem on childhood together. 

My Childhood
by Matthew Zapruder
the orange ball arcs perfectly into the orange hoop making a sound like a drawer closing you will never get to hold that I am here and nothing terrible will ever happen across the street the giant white house full of kids turns the pages of an endless book the mother comes home and finds the child animal sleeping I left my notebook beside the bed the father came home and sat and quietly talked one square of light on the wall waiting patiently I will learn my multiplication tables while the woman in the old photograph looks in a different direction Writing Prompt: Think back on your childhood and your blossoming youth. Write about a positive memory, a loss, lesson you have learned, something you don't want to forget, something you don't quite understand but want to understand more deeply. Write a poem, prose, or list. Be creative.

Get Inspired by Outstanding Young People: Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai is a sixteen-year old young activist who promotes equal access to education for all girls throughout the world. A year ago, she was shot in the face by the Taliban because of her advocacy. She survived and now travels the world giving speeches and working to bring educational opportunities to all young people.

In July, she addressed the U.N. on this issue. Watch and take notes on what the video makes you think, feel, and know:

July 12, 2013,

Malala Yousafzai, Girl Shot by Taliban, Makes Appeal at U.N.

By JENNIFER PRESTON

October 9, 2012, 

Pakistani Activist, 15, Is Shot by Taliban

By ROBERT MACKEY