August 24, 2025
I’m delighted to be presenting at the Annual National Council for the Social Studies Conference in Washington D.C. December 2025. The theme of this year's conference is "because democracy depends on it," which inspired my proposal, "Design for Democracy: Incorporating Student Voice by Animating Primary Sources."
About the "Design for Democracy" Presentation:
My presentation will be a fast paced 25 minutes with all the information also online for those who cannot attend. I'll be showcasing 20 Keynote animations that teachers and students can use as sparks for research and inquiry. Each Keynote animation will be a simple remix of historic Library of Congress Posters and export to animated GIFS. My hope is that the presentation will encourage students to create simple yet impactful animation remixes of historic posters demonstrating knowledge of the past and using their "voice" in addressing current issues.
As I work along to build this presentation I'll add approximately 2 animations a week up until the week of the Conference (replying to my own post). I hope you'll follow along with suggestions and ideas.
Animation #1 - Democracy ..a Challenge
Teaching Notes from the Teaching with Primary Sources Teachers Network:
Democracy .. a challenge was created by the Federal Art Project between 1936 and 1940. Students choosing this poster to study should carefully observe and research the image, to understand its themes and symbols. Next, they should design a simple slide animation that enhances the visual impact of the image. This animation should be concise and engaging, effectively conveying the message of the poster. Finally, students should propose an essential question that encourages meaningful discussions and critical thinking. (Example: “What are the challenges and aspirations of a democratic society?")
Apple Support instructions for any project animating with Keynote (iOS):
- Animate objects on a slide in Keynote on iPad
- Edit an image in Keynote on iPad
- Add and edit drawings in Keynote on iPad
- Change the order and timing of builds in Keynote on iPad
- Take a screenshot on iPad
- Use Markup on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
- Create an animated GIF in Keynote on iPad
Resource - Library of Congress Poster Collections:
September 19, 2025 .
English
I'll continue to add animations as replies to above post as I build my presentation. Please critique. Thanks!
Animation #2 - 140th flag day, 1777-1917
Teaching Notes from the Teaching with Primary Sources Teachers Network:
140th flag day, 1777-1917 The birthday of the stars and stripes, June 14th, 1917 was created in 1917 and is part of the World War I War Posters at the Library of Congress. Students choosing this poster to study should carefully observe and research the image, to understand its symbols. Next, they should design a simple slide animation that enhances the visual impact of the image. This animation should be concise and engaging, effectively conveying the message of the poster. Finally, students should propose an essential question that encourages meaningful discussions and critical thinking. (Example: “Why do symbols like the flag hold power, and how do they influence civic life?”)
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