In New Zealand, we've had a rocky start to the school year. We've been impacted by some significant weather events, which has led to the media describing a new phenomenon called rain anxiety. Instead of launching directly into curriculum work, I got my students to sketchnote their proposed 2023 learning journey, including their goals and ambitions for my subject. The main reason is that sketchnoting is a great way to provide visual notes, and is strangely meditative and calming.
In fact, I compiled a book called Start Sketchnoting because of how sketchnoting can benefit teachers and students https://books.apple.com/nz/book/start-sketchnoting/id1493747658
Other ways we could integrate sketchnoting into our lessons are:
- Meaningful planning for essays or writing
- Character profiles
- Selfie-sketchnotes as an introduction to the year
- Making thoughtful notes
- Storyboards for films
- Planning for static image
- Legitimate doodling
The list could go on and on. I've used sketches to highlight key ideas on Keynote slides. I've also used this form of sketching to keep focused in professional development sessions. On a daily basis, I use my whiteboard for a wrap-up of lessons, or to give big-picture ideas. Now I can do it in a far more visual way.
I have found it to be relaxing, rewarding, and a super fun way to bring creativity back into the classroom. Can you think of other ways to use sketchnoting to ignite creativity in the classroom? Feel free to comment below.
February 26, 2023
I love this reminder that sketchnoting can support both student AND teacher thinking in so many powerful ways. Thanks for sharing this great resource, Linda!
I wrote about having preservice teachers sketchnote to unpack the ISTE Standards in this post last fall: https://education.apple.com/en/story/250010740
Always looking for new ways to bring creativity into my practice, and your book shares so many great ideas!
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