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#learningthroughalens

@janeh271

#collagechallenge

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#collagechallenge RED

Photography is a tool which can be used by anyone of any age and any ability. With the access to

iPads and mobile phones as well as cameras we can use photography in our social life but also in our

classrooms with great ease. The #collagechallenge happened by accident. I decided to challenge

myself to wander around Sheffield with my macro lens and take only close up shots of textures.

Many people commented on this via twitter and were keen to ‘have a go’. The hash tag was born

and we realised how much fun this is but also how it opens your eyes to what is around you. I’m

sharing some of our attempts here – with the permission of some of those involved. Have ago

yourself or use these in your classrooms – share your results with us we would love to see them.

Imagine being told that you could have a device to use in your teaching that was easily accessible and allowed for

creativity. This device comes in a variety of forms, with a range of price tags to suit all school budgets. It will motivate

pupils but will also cause laughter as well as deep learning and thoughtful reflection. You don’t need any real training

to use it, you can learn, with your pupils, as you go along. It allows for mathematical and scientific ideas to be mixed

in with art and literacy. It will stimulate discussion, it may cause controversy but it will certainly get a reaction. Have I

convinced you – great but you already have at least one version of this device now all you need to do is unlock its

potential and see how this amazing tool can be used.

Introduction to ‘Learning Through a Lens’ by Jane Hewitt Crown House Publishing 2014

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An easy way to begin is with a collage that anyone can do – anywhere – so one of the following

would be a good idea

Patterns Collage by @bethben92 @Mrs_H11

Look around your home or your classroom – how many patterns can you see? Work with your own

children at home – this challenge allows adults and children alike to work on the same level.

When presenting your collage consider the hundreds of free apps that are available that will

do this for you. Find one that works for you. I use Moldiv and 9 squares for mine but the possibilities

are endless.

Colour Choose a particular colour and fill your frame with

your image if possible.

I love this collage by @theheadsoffice as all the

greens both man made and in nature are the same

shade.

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@Mrs_H11

This was done in the back garden by a mum and her son – gives you a reason to explore.

Buttons The next challenges are still easy but give you another level if you want to develop ideas.

@elaronndy @RachelOrr @coffeecup42

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You could use ordinary buttons, antique buttons, buttons that mean something, chocolate

buttons, buttons on a microwave… you can start to explore different directions. In the same

way – Lines and Stripes allowed for a close up of a toothbrush and a caterpillar

Lines and Stripes

Visits with a theme – market/café

@ArtBethan

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Find out more: If you want to know more about using

photography in the classroom or with your

own children or just for yourself! Articles

and ideas can be found on my blog

http://janehewitt.blogspot.co.uk/

Or in my book ‘Learning through a lens’ which is available on Amazon

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mick-Waters-introduces-Learning-Photography/dp/1781351147

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Or follow me @janeh271 on twitter or just use the hashtag #collagechallenge

@ArtBethan