Divided Images is an activity that allows students to look at a visual image more closely by zooming into quadrants one at a time. By doing so students can do a "close read" of the image to gain a deeper understanding of individual components, overall theme, and the artist's intent. Click here to work on divided image activity adapted from the work of Harvey Daniels and Nancy Steinekein Texts and Lessons(2011) with the sample photo provided.
List-Group-Label
List-Group-Label is a way for students to brainstorm, sort, and categorize academic vocabulary. It allows for groups of students to engage in meaningful, rich conversations about words, their meanings, and context. While there are many websites that provide directions and resources for this activity, Reading Rockets offers directions, examples, and videos of the lesson in action.
Quote and Comment, and Other Before Reading Strategies
Lori Daly compiled several before reading strategies here. I like this activity in particular because it gets students engaged in visualizing, reading, and responding to text while moving around the room while interacting with peers. Quote and Comment: Choose a selection of pictures, quotes, diagrams, equations, number strings, or graphs to post on chart paper around the room. Have students engage in a gallery walk, responding with comments, reactions, or questions about each of selections you have posted. Provide an opportunity for student to discuss their thoughts and questions before diving into new content.