Photos

App: Camera

Cost: Free

Device: Most smart devices

SAMR Model: Redefinition

App Map Score: Here

Participatory Literacies Score: Here

Description

The camera function on a device is a tool that students can use to engage in learning materials in a 21st century way. Students can be given a prompt or criteria and take photos in the real-world setting, or create to meet the activity's criteria. The photos can be shared in a multitude of ways-- including leaving as is on the device, sharing on social media, Google, email, or a photo app/website. Some photo sharing resources may include Pic Collage, ExplainEverything, Seesaw, ChatterPix, Instagram, Flikr, or Google Photos.

Differentiation

The camera function on a device offers many meaningful ways for differentiation. Students can be given individual assignments where they can be asked to meet different criteria. This is a great way for students to apply their knowledge in a 21st century context which would allow them to use creativity and higher order thinking skills to meet criteria. Students could create a photo or photo series based off a book or character. Students may go on letter hunts, some searching for words that begin with certain letters, others that begin or contain digraphs, or CVCe words.

Comprehension

The camera function is a meaningful tool to increase comprehension. Teachers can use student pictures to drive instruction. Teachers can assess how students are comprehending material based on their ability to meet the photo prompts. Students can build comprehension skills by taking the information they learned and applying it in a real-world, creative context. Students can increase comprehension by self-assessing or reflecting on their creations, and editing or re-doing as they see necessary.

Possible Downfalls

Students may get distracted by taking silly photos. One way for this to be avoided is giving them time to take those photos either at the beginning of the lesson or when introducing the camera function. Teachers will need to set expectations and guidelines based on their class.