Multimedia Files

I often use multimedia files to explain concepts or assignment to my students. Some of the most popular files are images and photographs I show my students so they may practice their description skills, since this is a great way to learn how to cater to one's audience.

I have used images like the painting above: Envy, by Theodore Gericault - painting (1822-1823). I ask my student to analyze this painting and tell me what they see. Most of the students notice the redness of the subject's eyes, her disheveled clothing, and the overall look of "madness." Then, I ask the student to draw some conclusions based on their observations. I later tell the students that this painting is also called Insane Woman, and we discuss whether they believe such title is accurate.

Other images might be more contemporary. For instance, in the photograph above, three children stand on train tracks. I ask my students to pay attention to the children's faces and describe them. Then, the students must determine what the children are seeing. The students conclude that a train is coming, and the children are surprised (and scared) by it. We also have fun when discussing whether the children actually see a train, or if they are merely posing.

I ask half of the students to select and describe specific details that would "prove" the children are actually seeing a train. The other half of the class must describe details that prove the children are posing. This exercise helps the students understand how description can be a powerful tool to present an argument.

2020 UPDATE: I still believe in using images to facilitate discussion, but nowadays, multimedia files can be more versitile. For instance, using Bitmoji and Google Slides, I can create a presence on my website. I will be experimenting with making this space interactive. Stay tuned.

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