Symbols Tell Your Story
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Symbols Tell Your Story
Mapping Memory through Art Year 7 Visual Arts Lesson 5 of 10
Learning Intention
Identify and interpret personal symbols and imagery Represent unique memories and places through symbols Begin brainstorming visual signs for artwork design Connect symbols to personal storytelling
Success Criteria
I can explain what symbols mean to me personally I can identify key symbols for meaningful sites or memories I can create a brainstorm of visual signs and symbols I can use visual conventions to communicate meaning I can reflect on connections between symbols and my story
What Are Symbols?
Think about symbols you see every day What do they represent? How do they communicate without words?
Types of Symbols
{"left":"Personal symbols - meaningful to you and your family\nCultural symbols - shared by your community or heritage\nUniversal symbols - understood by people everywhere","right":"Examples: family photos, cultural patterns, religious symbols\nExamples: peace sign, heart shape, arrows, warning signs"}
Symbols in Aboriginal Art
Traditional symbols tell stories of Country Circles represent waterholes or campsites Wavy lines show water or journeys Dots create patterns and textures Each symbol carries deep cultural meaning
Teacher Modelling
Watch as I choose a special place See how I identify 3 key symbols Observe my brainstorming process Notice how I explain symbol meanings
Guided Practice
Work in pairs to discuss your special place Identify possible symbols together Use the brainstorming worksheet Ask: What objects, colors, shapes remind you of this place?
Differentiation Support
Lower learners: Use visual prompts and sentence starters Middle learners: Add detailed annotations and stories High achievers: Explore complex symbolic combinations Extension: Research artists who use symbolic imagery
Independent Creation
Create your personal symbol brainstorm Sketch thumbnail icons and signs Add brief annotations explaining significance Think about how symbols connect to your story
Reflection Time
Share one symbol with the class Explain why it's meaningful to you How will this symbol appear in your final artwork?
Next Steps
Your symbols will guide your artwork design Consider how to combine symbols meaningfully Think about colors, sizes, and placement Prepare for our next lesson on composition Keep developing your visual story