Word Snapshot Directions
A snapshot “freezes” a moment in time. You are going to create snapshots that freeze time, but
without using cameras. Instead, you are going to create a word snapshot that can be used in
future years to give a more detailed picture of this particular period in your life.
Your snapshot should be both detailed and colorful. You are giving a glimpse into your life and
what you like, dislike, current music, etc… The idea is to see who you are just by looking at
your poster. Small graphics are allowed, but the word snapshot must communicate primarily
with words. When completed with care, the snapshots are attractive, fascinating keepsakes.
You will choose at least 6 categories to create your snapshot around (brainstormed together in
class). Each category will be associated with a specific color, meaning that I should see at least
6 different colors used throughout your snapshot. There is also a writing component to this
project. You will accompany your snapshot with an explanation of the words chosen. Parts of
your lives that are important today will not be important to you in ten or fifteen years from
now. Without the explanation, you may look at your word snapshot and wonder why in the
world did you include certain words and phrases.
Basic Instructions:
1- Choose at least 6 categories to complete your project on.
2- Assign each a category a specific color.
3- Brainstorm lists of words/phrases for each category. Each category should have at
least 10 words, for a total of 60 words minimum.
4- Begin placing the words on the paper provided using the specific color you assigned for
each category. This will help to color code your project and keep things organized.
5- Writing component: Choose at least 4 words from each category (total of 24 minimum)
to write about. You will write one sentence for each word to explain why you have
included it in your snapshot. This is where you will also explain what each color
represents.
Examples:
The words in red are things that I love
Smoothies: I love the Strawberry Wave from Juice it Up! I go there at least once a week
The words written in purple are things that are very popular
Purse Dogs: Many celebrities have tiny little dogs that they dress up and take
everywhere.
The words written in grey are unfortunate things happening in our world
War in Iraq: It’s so sad. This is a very big event in our world right now.
Things written in pink are current styles
Straight hair: Thank goodness I’ve got it! Most people use straighteners.