Using GIFs in the Classroom


A GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) is a compressed image.  Think an animated version of a meme.  "A single gif file can feature multiple frames which are displayed in succession in order to create an animated clip, these can either be looped endlessly or just stop at the end of the sequence. We tend to use animated gifs today as "Reaction Gifs", they act as fun replies for conversations on apps like Facebook Messenger" or via texting (The Sun).  Ask anyone how to pronounce GIF and you will get a variety of answers.  Luckily you're reading this, so you can decide for yourself.
Most likely, your students are already using GIFs in their daily communication. Incorporating them into the classroom is another way to engage the students as well as teach curriculum.  
Blogger and teacher, Kimberly Snodgrass, uses GIFs "to learn a new concept, to solidify a point, or to assess understanding. The cool thing about them is that they bring static images to life, break down steps, show processes, visualize key concepts, demonstrate knowledge, and most importantly, make content memorable."
Some ways Snodgrass has used GIFs in the classroom:
  • review vocabulary- See examples
  • learn about genre
  • make inferences- See examples
  • discuss figurative language

Students can create their own GIFs in addition to simply finding an already-created one that works for their purposes.  Once you have decided what the students will use their created GIF for (show understanding, reflection, etc.):
  1. Head on over to www.giphy.com – (I had better luck using Safari)
  2. Students can create an account if they want to save their GIFs, but I suggest simply choosing "Create" and saving the image to Drive.
  3. When you’re ready, click “CREATE” on the top menu bar.
  4. You should now be at the the almighty “GIF MAKER”.  You can create your custom GIF from an existing GIF, a photo, a video, or you can start from pre-created templates under “Choose your inspiration.”.  Encourage students to shoot their own videos and photos to use for more creativity.  The other cool thing about GIPHY is that you can cite your sources! You can give credit to the work of those who you’ve built upon to create your rockstar custom GIF!  
  5. Now, the fun part! Once you’ve chosen your foundation, you can give it your own personal twist. BLING IT ON! You can add a caption (various colors and font options to choose from), add stickers (other fun little sparkly things – these are my absolute fave), add filters (several options), or add drawings (I don’t do this, ever.).
  6. Once you LOVE it, make sure to click all the way through the download buttons on the bottom right side of the screen until you have your final GIF.
  7. Download your GIF to your computer/Drive, then insert it into Google Classroom, Google Docs, wherever.  It will save as an image (.gif) and should be inserted that way.
  8. If you simply want students to use already-created GIFs, have them use the search bar at the top of www.giphy.com, then "save image as"...but don't forget to cite your source!
Here is my created GIF:

If you like the idea using GIFs with your students, consider taking a look at my post on Bitmoji.

Sources: 
https://www.thesun.co.uk/tech/3800248/what-is-gif-how-pronounced-animated-memes/ 
http://daveburgess.com/get-your-gif-on/

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