Through the Eyes of a Lens

3rd-5th Grade
Special Education
Life Skills Class

I teach a Life Skills class of Multiply Handicapped students. My lesson/project is to develop a skill of picture taking, integrating Science with Technology, learning about the environment, and earning money.

Students will be introduced to a point and shoot camera and its features. They will learn how to take pictures at, above and below eye level. Students will learn how to view, erase and edit their pictures after a shoot. Pictures will be taken of the environment such as seasonal pictures (fall leaves, spring flowers) vehicles, animals, etc. Lessons such as Plant Life, Seasons, Animal Life and Weather will be taught in accordance to the pictures being taken. Then the students will learn how to go to a local store and purchase pictures.

My goal for this project is to make greeting cards using the images taken. The images will be the front of the card with a blank inside. The greeting cards will be printed and students will sell their work in the school and to family members. The profits will be used to fund class community trips.

It is important for my students to learn about their community. This includes learning how to order from a menu, sit and eat at a local restaurant, navigate through a supermarket, etc. These outings cost money and I think it would be a great life lesson for my students to learn how to earn and spend their own money. In addition, my students will develop their communication skills by interacting with students and teachers while selling their pictures.

I believe this lesson/project will develop a sense of pride in my students. They will develop a skill that can be used in a variety of areas as they grow. This hands on learning of multiple areas is invaluable.