Photography serves as a powerful window into the experiences of migrants during the Great Depression, offering visual narratives that capture their struggles, resilience, and hopes. Through the lens of historical photographs, we gain intimate glimpses into the hardships faced by migrant families, from the dusty fields they worked to the crowded camps where they sought shelter. These images preserve moments of uncertainty and perseverance, revealing the human impact of economic hardship. By examining these photographs, students can connect empathetically with the stories of those who endured this challenging time, understanding the profound societal shifts and the personal journeys of individuals seeking a better life.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
What Stories Do Photographs Tell?
Standards
Instructional Snapshot
The lesson begins with a short discussion of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl hardships that pushed many families westward. Students then analyze and annotate photographs of migrants in expert jigsaw pairs, noting details and connections about their experiences. In study groups, they sort their observations into themes such as perseverance or uncertainty and share their findings. To conclude, students suggest new titles for the photos that capture the overall themes of migrants’ lives. (For more download the PDF or Word document linked above.)
Formative Tasks
COLLABORATE: Annotate a series of photographs using a guided observation exercise.
DELIBERATE: Sort aspects of the image into created themes that “tell the story” of migrants’ experiences during the Great Depression.
PRODUCE: Suggest new titles for each photograph that reflect an accurate “telling” of the Great Depression.
Sources
Great Depression Migrants Photograph Set, Library of Congress
Summative Performance Task
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Taking Informed Action
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