Scanner Collage Lesson Plan

"A scanner collage is made by placing items (photographs, realia, etc.) on a computer scanner, scanning the items, and printing the results.  A good scanner collage involves a theme or message." (Keith Kyker and Christopher Curchy)

Objectives:
  • Students will use the scanner to create a picture that represents the topic.
  • Students will write a paragraph explaining the reasons they selected the items they used.
Procedure: 
  1. Assign the Scanner Collage project to your class based on the topic on which you are working.
  2. After each item is placed on the scanner, cover the scanner with the items with a piece of cloth.  This provides a background.  Have various types of background material from which the students can select.  (Be sure to remove the cloth after each picture so the scanner doesn't overheat.)
  3. Save the scanned picture as a .jpg.
  4. Have the students use picture editing software if they want to "touch up" their picture.
  5. Have the students write a paragraph explaining what each item in the collage represents.
Material:
  • Computer
  • Scanner
  • Printer
  • Piece of Plexiglas to cover top of scanner glass (prevents scratching of glass)
  • Imaging or picture editing software
  • Paper (glossy paper works best but is not necessary)
Ideas:
  • An autobiography
  • Book report
  • Nations of the world
  • Geometric shapes
  • Career interests
  • My pet
  • My family
  • My neighborhood
  • Story Telling
  • Balanced Meals