Grade Level: High School – Undergraduate
Class Duration: One 60–90 minute session + Independent Student Work
Part Three: Photography & Oral History Documentation
Lesson Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, students will:
- Develop visual storytelling skills by capturing architectural details through photography.
- Conduct and document an oral history interview with a pastor, church historian, or longtime member.
- Analyze how personal narratives and visual imagery enhance historical understanding.
- Create a final project integrating photography, interviews, and research.
Materials Needed:
- Cameras or smartphones for photography.
- Audio or video recording devices (smartphones, recorders, or laptops).
- Notebooks and pens for interview notes.
- Access to digital platforms for project submission (Google Drive, Canva, PowerPoint, printed portfolios).
Lesson Activities:
1. Photography Workshop & Guidelines (20 min)
- Basic Photography Principles: Discuss framing, lighting, and composition.
- What to Capture:
- Exterior shots: church façade, entrance, historical markers, landscape.
- Interior shots: sanctuary, pulpit, stained glass, seating arrangement.
- Community elements: any plaques, artwork, or significant artifacts.
- Ethical Considerations:
- Seek permission before photographing people.
- Be respectful of sacred spaces.
2. Oral History Documentation (30 min)
- Interview Preparation:
- Review best practices for conducting an interview.
- Prepare open-ended questions such as:
- What is the history of this church and its role in the community?
- How has the building’s design changed over time?
- Are there any significant events tied to this church’s history?
- Recording the Interview:
- Conduct interviews with the pastor, historian, or congregation members.
- Take notes on key themes and historical insights.
3. Student Project Development (40 min – Independent Work)
- Photo Essays:
- Students curate a selection of their best photographs.
- Write short captions explaining the significance of each image.
- Oral History Summaries:
- Transcribe or summarize key points from the interviews.
- Reflect on how personal stories enhance the understanding of church history.
- Final Presentation Options:
- Digital photo documentary (Google Slides, Canva, PowerPoint).
- Printed photo book with captions and interview excerpts.
- Video presentation combining images and oral history clips.
Assessment:
- Participation in photography and interview process.
- Completion of a final project integrating visual and oral history elements.
- Presentation and class discussion on findings and reflections.