Graffiti is a way of creating. An art form of expression. Intricate and unique, colorful and dynamic. On exteriors of buildings and underpasses it builds a sense of mystery, an announcement of presence and authority. These same levels of interpretation and articulation run deep in a student-centered classroom. Having a location where students can declare and comment on content is a great way to bring voice to even the quietest of students. Anonymity is appreciated. Fluidity of vocabulary and artistry is crowd-pleasing. As much as a beautiful mural of graffiti is work of art, a classroom graffiti wall is an intricate weaving of demonstration of knowledge and personal narration and style.
What is a Graffiti Wall?
A large space, preferably a black board. Chalk just creates a feel unlike any other writing tool. Smearing and powdery, creating a sense of urgency and impermanence. I like to leave it blank for a few days, letting students see the need to draw and add their flavor to the space. It is their area in which to make connections, allow their ideas to come to life through art and most importantly, generate conversation. Students walk over to it and read through the posts every class period and by the end of the day a giant mosaic of science and imagination comes to life. A display of collaboration, individuality and the confluence of understanding and design. It is an amazing thing to watch as each students adds a layer to the board, bring more meaning and depth to the visual communication. It is a great way for all of my classes to interact with and learn from one another.
Cells Graffiti Wall
Our first graffiti wall of the year- cells vocabulary. The only instructions I gave: choose one of the cells vocabulary words and draw a comic or cartoon character representing the term. Add a motto they would use to define their function in a cell. This board of wonderment, humor, imagination and joy is the result of six classrooms adding layers throughout the day. It is a pure example of student-choice and student-voice. There are some hilarious references to not only current politics (I am okay with including political statements as long as they are not offensive), Lord of the Rings, The Hunger Games, even Dr. Who. This is one of many more to come. I am just joyful. Students were engaged, interactive and so excited to put their stamp on the wall. They of course all wanted to sign their work but my response- "Graffiti is anonymous for a reason. Graffiti artists want to be recognized for their work, but they want you to know their voice, their vision." As a community I want them to begin to recognize each others artwork and turn of phrase, this is when I will truly see a community of learners come to fruition. When it is not about who but what. When the graffiti wall is no longer personal but communal. When all student voices and individual artistry harmonize into community mastery, method and ingenuity.
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