Lesson Plan

• Describe the purpose of visual research in photographic practice.
• Identify and differentiate direct observation and secondary sources.
• Apply a systematic process to collect, organise, and log visual material.
• Analyse gathered research to generate original photographic ideas.
• Reflect on how research influences technical and aesthetic decisions.

• Projector and screen
• Digital cameras (one per pair)
• Sketchbooks and pencils
• Printed research‑log template
• Laptops/tablets for online image search
• Example photographs and mood‑board prints
• Markers and sticky notes

Begin with a striking photograph and ask, “What research might have led to this image?” Connect to the previous lesson on composition, reminding students that strong ideas are grounded in observation and research. Explain that today they will produce a complete research log and a brief proposal, which will be used as success criteria.

1. Do‑now (5'): Think‑pair‑share on why visual research matters.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present the 6‑step research process with projector examples.
3. Field observation demo (15'): Students go to the school courtyard, take thumbnail sketches and quick photos of light, texture, and movement.
4. Secondary‑source hunt (10'): Using tablets, locate three reference images online, record citations.
5. Organise & log (10'): Fill the printed research‑log table with observations and ideas.
6. Idea development (10'): Write a 150‑200 word proposal linking research to a photographic concept.
7. Peer feedback (5'): Share proposals in pairs and give one constructive suggestion.

Review the research‑to‑idea cycle, highlighting how each step builds the final photograph. For the exit ticket, ask students to write one key insight from today’s research that will shape their next image. Homework: complete a full research log for a new personal theme and bring the log and a draft proposal to the next class.