Building a Book on Staten Island

Seventh-graders at St. Joseph Hill Academy on Staten Island recently saw firsthand how technology is used to communicate. The students there, under the guidance of technology specialist Laura Bettina, learned about visual literacy and technology. They then discussed how visual images convey meaning and translated that meaning into words. The pupils also observed how their own personality, interest and culture impacted how they saw the image. The observations were then compiled into a book, which showcased the importance of the printed image. “Ms. Bettina’s visual literacy project promoted critical thinking and problem solving—the book project gave us a unique opportunity to express ourselves and be creative,” said Nina Davis, a seventh-grader. Ms. Bettina encourages her students to excel by example. “As an educator, I aim to provide a positive atmosphere where students feel empowered and thrive in a collaborative, interactive environment,” she said.