How Do You Use Photographs In Teaching History?
As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. When teaching history, historical images are valuable tools that can increase student comprehension of material referred to in a lecture or passage of text. Historic photographs can be found in newspaper archives, in private collections or even through an online search. They may be used as wall decor, displayed from projectors or even passed around as laminated prints. Select authentic historic photographs that satisfy basic standards of composition. Confirming the authenticity of a historic photograph is not always easy. For example, Lincoln scholars debate as to whether or not a blurry image from the scene of the Battle of Gettysburg actually portrays the President arriving on horseback to deliver his famous speech. If possible, permit students to view historical images wherein subjects are sharply focused and elements of the picture are arranged to produce visually stimulating composition. Utilize decorative posters and websit
