New Presentations Prove a Hit at Our Lady of Lourdes School!

Our Lady of Lourdes School in Elmvale posed me a challenge. Could we adapt the presentation so that it would appeal to children in Grades 1, 2 and 3?

I tightened up the content and added images from personalities that the children could identify with, like Daniel Cook and Emily Yeung and the children were thrilled. The session lasted approximately 45 minutes and was deemed a great success.

I was also able to work with the other Grades 4 through 8, for a very full day.

Another milestone was passed in that this was the first time I have worked for the Catholic School Board. It confirms that the material is relevant throughout the Canadian school system, regardless of denomination.

I would like to share some of the class feedback from the presentation with special thanks to Teacher-Librarian Kelly Kurtz for her enthusiastic support and for taking the time to gather the quotes.

" I really enjoyed Mr. Stranks' presentation. I found it interesting that he was a diver because my dad is one also. I liked what he told us about photographers and the equipment they use to make images so clear and interesting. I found it interesting that he has met and taken photographs of famous people and pictures for magazines, advertising and nature. I found all of his photographs excellent. I was happy that he told us about the equipment because I like taking pictures too. I liked that there were simple pictures too, like the one with three of his family members in the pool. Overall I really enjoyed his presentation and I was happy he got us involved with activities too. (Waterfall) Thank you Mr. Stranks." Gr. 8 student

" I liked that we got to participate in your presentation. Thank you for coming." Gr. 8 student

" I was surprised that it took him so many years to figure out he wanted to be a photographer. I really liked the interactive games we played. Also the pictures he showed us. I like how he showed and told us all about his life." Kyla, Gr. 8 student

And from the other teachers:

"The presentation captivated our grade 6 and 7 classes. Peter's easy-going story telling accentuated the photo presentation and highlighted many key messages regarding media literacy. By allowing us a glimpse behind the scenes, Peter helped to unlock some of the glamorous, yet mysterious machinations of the world of media. Thank you for an enjoyable, informative presentation." Cathy Barry, Gr. 5/6 teacher

"The visit to our school was very worthwhile and interesting. He is a very talented person and an inspiration to others. Thanks for sharing with us."
Debbie Kennedy, Gr 2/3 and Literacy Support teacher

"Peter's interactive presentations were very well received by staff and students in grades 1 through 8. Meeting a photographer who works in the media industry greatly enriched students' understanding of media literacy. Students came away with many positive messages: find work you enjoy, expensive equipment is not needed to take good pictures, famous people are real people too, and a good photo speaks volumes. Many students hoped for Peter to return to our school. Thank you Peter." Kelly Kurtz, Teacher-Librarian