Memes in History Class

I was reading Glen Wiebe's blog and he posted about using memes in his History class.  He suggests at least three ways that memes can be used.

Firstly he says "As another category of foundational knowledge, historical characters seem like a perfect fit for memes. Try having students use memes to highlight basic personality traits and characteristics of specific people – perhaps from different perspectives. What would a meme look like of FDR if created by a 1930s Democrat? Republican? Unemployed person?"

Secondly he says "A good meme is the 21st century version of a newspaper political cartoon. So have students analyze historical and current political cartoons. Have them create a meme version that says the same thing as the cartoons. Discuss the impact of cartoons and how they’re typically used versus how memes are spread and used. What are the similarities and differences? Advantages and disadvantages to those creating the cartoon and meme?"

Lastly he says "Have students create memes based on historical events. They research an event, select a photo or painting, and insert text. Perhaps have students exchange memes via social media or a shared Google Doc and have them interpret and explain each other’s memes."

A good place to make memes is at imgflip.  To see the website click here.

from Lisa Sabala