Layers of Story Lesson Plan PD Session Tier 1 • 30 Minutes
Layers of Story
"Collage is the art of reassembling reality to tell a new truth."
Why This Matters
Collage art engages diverse learners by blending visual and textual literacy, fostering creativity, comprehension, and narrative skills. Equipping teachers with these strategies supports multimodal learning and meets varied student needs.
Objectives
Identify how collage art supports visual literacy and narrative skills.
Design a mini-collage classroom activity to implement with students.
At a Glance
Time: 30 Minutes
Approach: Hands-on / Inquiry
Audience: Teachers (K-12)
Preparation & Materials
To Gather:
• Magazines, scissors, glue sticks
• Cardstock paper & chart paper
• Markers & colorful pens
• Projector or Smartboard
To Print:
• Collage Art Book Examples handout
• Mini-Collage Activity Template
Facilitation Guide
5 min
Welcome & Objectives
Introduce the session’s goal: integrating collage art into literacy.
Share actionable objectives & session agenda.
8 min
Explore Collage Art Books
Distribute Book Examples handout and project selected pages.
Prompt: How do layers and textures convey story elements?
Facilitate a brief share-out of visual observations.
7 min
Discuss Pedagogical Strategies
Pairs/Groups: How can collage support vocabulary and comprehension?
Record 2–3 specific strategies on chart paper.
Share highlights with the full group.
7 min
Mini-Collage Creation
Distribute Activity Template and supplies.
Teachers create a quick collage representing a curriculum concept.
Reflect on logistical considerations for the classroom.
3 min
Reflection & Next Steps
Debrief: What insights will inform your teaching?
Commitment: Name one way you will implement this in an upcoming lesson.
Layers of Story Slides Layers of Story
Boosting visual literacy and creative expression
through the art of collage.
Professional Development • Tier 1
Welcome
Objectives
Agenda
1
Explore Book Examples
2
Discuss Strategies
3
Create Mini-Collage
4
Reflect & Next Steps
Step 1: Explore & Observe
"Once upon a time..."
Texture & Depth
Narrative Contrast
Symbolic Layering
How do layers, textures, and imagery convey narrative?
Look at your Book Examples Handout
Step 2: Pedagogical Strategies
In your small groups, discuss:
"How can collage support specific literacy skills?"
Vocabulary
Labeling textures, naming feelings, descriptive words.
Comprehension
Visualizing setting and character internal states.
Group Task
Record on Chart Paper:
• 2-3 Concrete Strategies
• Grade-Level Applications
• Assessment Ideas
Step 3: Hands-On Creation
The Challenge:
Create a quick collage that tells a short story or represents a curriculum concept.
7 Minutes
Use the Activity Template
While You Work, Consider:
?
How would students manage these materials?
?
What is the optimal pacing for this activity?
Reflect & Share
Deep Dive
What insights from today will inform your teaching practice?
Action Plan
"I will implement collage art in my classroom by..."
Continue the conversation in your PLCs! Share student work and lessons.
Thank You for Creating with Us!
Collage Art Book Examples Handout Collage Art Book Examples
Visual Literacy Observation Guide
PD Handout / Participant Copy
Below are three representative styles of collage-illustrated books. As you review each page projected on the screen, consider how visual layers, textures, and imagery work together to tell a story.
01
The Narrative of Texture
1. Describe how the artist uses layering and texture to convey mood and setting.
2. Identify three specific elements (e.g., torn paper, fabric, photos) and their roles.
3. How do color choices and contrast guide the reader’s eye through the page?
02
Vocabulary & Concept
4. What vocabulary or story concepts are reinforced by the images on this page?
5. How does the interaction between text and imagery deepen narrative comprehension?
03
Classroom Adaptation
6. Which textures or patterns did you notice first, and why do they stand out?
7. Imagine adapting this page as a classroom activity. What would be your objective?
Use these insights to inform your own design in the Mini-Collage Activity Template.
Mini-Collage Activity Template Project Planner
Mini-Collage Activity Template
1. Activity Title
2. Grade Level & Subject
3. Learning Objective
Students will be able to...
4. Materials Checklist
Magazines / Newspapers
Scissors & Glue Sticks
Cardstock Background
Markers / Crayons
5. Implementation Steps
A
Brainstorm & Plan (5 min)
Identify your theme, story idea, or key concept:
B
Select & Arrange (10 min)
Browse imagery, cut 5-7 pieces, and experiment with composition:
C
Glue & Finalize (10 min)
Glue pieces down and add hand-drawn details or labels:
D
Reflect & Share (5 min)
Write a 2-3 sentence caption explaining the message:
6. Post-Activity Reflection
1. What story, concept, or vocabulary did your collage communicate?
2. Which collage elements (images, colors, textures) were most effective?
3. How could you adapt this to reinforce comprehension or narrative skills?
4. What logistical considerations (time, grouping) will you need to plan for?