Using Photography to Inspire Writing 9

By Hank Kellner

Most students don’t realize how powerful their imaginations are. But when they’re introduced to visual images like the one shown here, even the most reluctant writer can gain inspiration.

One good thing about using photos to encourage writing is that there are times when simply viewing them without written prompts can free the imagination and unleash a flood of ideas. In the photo shown here, for example, the contrasts between the bright and dark areas provide a sense of mystery that suggests many possibilities for writing.

Sometimes, however, the imagination needs a little help to get it going. That’s when written prompts can help students overcome whatever hesitancy they may have.

During class discussion you could ask questions that will cause students to express themselves freely in writing. Why is this man standing alone in a place that seems to be deserted? Could he be in danger? Is there someone lurking in the shadows? Why isn’t there anyone with him? What is he holding in his hand? Where had he been before he arrived at this location? Why is his head bent forward? What is he thinking? What would a passerby be thinking?

The Amazing Adventures of Avenger Woman

This photo is supposed to show a brand new superheroine named Avenger Woman, but it’s really a photo of a section of a mural in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Of course, you could use almost any other similar photo if you if you want to have some fun while encouraging your students to create fanciful compositions.

Not as well known as Wonder Woman, Supergirl, or Cat- woman, Avenger Woman is said to be a descendant of the Aztec god Quitzelpickelpetal. By day she is an English teacher at a high school, where she is known as Ms. Consuela Hernandez. By night, she fights crime all over the world.

Avenger Woman’s last amazing adventure took place at the mall in Anytown, USA, where she thwarted an attempt by the evil Doctor No-No to kill everyone at the mall by releasing poison gas into it.

After conducting a class discussion based on superheroes and superheroines, you could ask your students to write descriptions of Avenger Woman in which they depict the clothing she wears when she is a teacher as contrasted to the clothing she wears as a superheroine. Students may also discuss Avenger Woman’s physical abilities, as well as any other extraordinary super powers she has.

Students may then conclude their pieces by describing the battle at the mall and its outcome.

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