Students learn best by doing.
Inspired by this core principle of the new Ontario technological education courses, Science teacher Ms. Coyle developed an exciting photography unit – The Miracle of Photography and Technology – for our Grade 10 Technology and Skilled Trades (TAS2O) students. With an experiential, hands-on, project-driven approach, Ms. Coyle and Ms. Zupan connected our young apprentices with two outstanding role models who have been our TAS2O guest speakers for the month of November. Former Hawthorn Parent Mr. Tai, accompanied by his daughter, Hawthorn Alumna, Ashley Tai ’20, generously shared their knowledge about the History of Black and White Photography and Technology as they guided our class in developing knowledge and skills and gaining experience in the field of photography.
Students who had an older camera with film capabilities were encouraged to bring it to class. The unit sessions included the following:
- Nov 04 – Lesson # 1 Macro photography concepts -> Review of the “Rules” of Composition and practice
- Nov 11 – Lesson # 2 Macro photography concepts -> Introduction to the 1940’s Kodak Retina film camera and exposure controls (technical use)
- Nov 18 – Lesson # 3 Macro photography concepts -> Processing exposed black and white negatives in class
- Nov 25 – Lesson # 4 Micro photography concepts -> Review of images combined with Chemical/Atomic photography concepts
Enormous thanks go out to Mr. Tai and Ashley for coming back to your alma mater and giving us your time and technological expertise. We loved building our photographic knowledge and skills with you!
As well, thank you to Ms. Zupan, Director of Academics, for her invaluable collaboration in bringing this project to life.