Some Tips for DfL

Most of these tips are for work displayed on a 2D surface.

Deciding on Content

• Try to have a theme or set of skills that can be used by a number of classes

• Use Bloom’s Revised taxonomy to ascertain the level of thinking taking place. Could you stretch pupils’ to think even further?

• Does your display allow other staff to contribute? Having a project theme can lead to an exhibition which is more diverse and stimulating for pupils.

Decide on the Space

• Where is the best place to put your display where pupils will be able to see and refer to it? Avoid placing it behind them!

• If exhibiting pupil’s work, will they actually have time and the distance to look at it or will it just become wall paper. If so, consider a more public space.

• Does a space suggest a certain type of display?

Collaboration

• Involve pupils wherever possible as they will take more pride in the display

• Try collaborating with another teacher in or outside of your department to bounce ideas off?

• Divide up clear objectives for all those involve so they can take ownership

Designing, Making & Visual Awareness

• Start by keeping it simple and then build up complexity by making decisions

• Consider whether colours and patterns are enhancing or complimenting the work on display?

• Sketch out your ideas first and lay out your work on the floor in front of the wall space to get general measurements and proportions and imagine its realisation

• Prepare your surfaces by removing all pins and staples and sanding down if necessary

• Would it be better to paint the background that line it with paper?

• Consider using nails and picture mounts for heavier items

• Use recycled and free junk materials wherever possible. Check the skip!

Extending Learning

• Try to think of tasks and activity work that can actively get students using  and referring to your displays beyond a single exhibition

• How might students add to the display over time to make a more interactive and time-based display?

• Let others know about your display - send an email with a picture and a description to the DfL Team to create a blog post