As projects take shape and particular images are needed, students can list what they need and keep an eye out for images their classmates might need. Teachers can use this time to discuss with students the problems with using too many images in their projects. While they can seem to be the most exciting part of the design, too many images can overwhelm the reader and detract from the content of the piece. Younger students can collect and sort images according to size, content, emotion, color, etc. Using these categories, students can decide which types of pictures they find most appealing and would like to include in their own projects.
Students can work on developing a definition of what makes a good image.
They can examine differences in the ways images are used for advertising, journalistic, or other purposes. They can discuss the ethical and intellectual issues involved in borrowing an image, manipulating it, or using it in a different context. As a variation, students can try to communicate an idea by creating a collage of images. Students can compare their original idea with the various interpretations of their audience and reflect on the ways and reasons that people interpret images differently.