My project

This is how I select images and words to create impact for different audiences.

When I began this creative project, where I had to design a PowerPoint slide on my mutant inspired by The Chrysalids, I thought deeply about what kind of message I wanted to convey to the audiences. I choose images and words based on the mood, tone, and theme I wanted to express. For example, because this was an inspectors report, I wanted the slides to be mysterious and dark. I selected images that reflected those themes, showing blinking lights and the dark wood table. When it came to words, I used descriptive language that could make the audience visualize and emotionally connect with the character I created. My goal was to make this project seem unsettling to look at, and after the ending slides, you are still left with that lingering feeling of fright. Every choice I make, was intentional and helped me create a stronger clearer impact on those viewing my work. All together, these choices helped me create a more powerful impact that not only told my story of a mutant, but also made the audiences feel something. That emotional reaction, to me, is what makes a creative project memorable and impactful.

One strategy or activity that stimulates my imagination is

One of the most effective strategies that I use to boost my imagination is to give myself time and space to think deeply. Sometimes, when I need inspiration or I’m stuck, I’ll sit in the quiet, close my eyes, and take a few deep breaths. I try to clear my mind of distractions and just focus on the feelin or image I want to bring into my work. I imagine the details as vividly as possible, and imagine how it might look like, sound like, or even feel like. For this project, I spent time just imagining what kind of mutant character I wanted to create. I asked myself questions on how I could make them interesting while still maintaining that mutant idea. These quiet sessions help me form a strong idea in my mind, which then turns into notes or sketches. I also go on walks to free my mind from anything else on my mind, and help my ideas flow naturally. I find that when I’m not forcing myself to be creative and think deeply, but instead allow it to come to me naturally, I am able to come up with more original concepts. I find that when I stop trying to force my creativity and instead let my thoughts take control and come to me at its own pace, I’m able to come up with more thoughtful and imaginative thoughts. This strategy works for different things not only this project, but it’s also something I always use whenever I need to tap into my creativity.

When I need to boost my mood or re-focus, I…

When I’m feeling tired, distracted, or frustrated while working on a project, one of the best ways for me to re-focus is by listening to music. Music has a huge impact on my mood and energy, and I have found that it helps me stay calm and grounded, especially when I am feeling down. However, I’ve also learned that not all music works the same way. For me, I cannot concentrate when there are lyrics in the music, it becomes too distracting. Instead, I reach for jazz music while I work, because it is calming and it can put me into the right mindset to work. Jazz music has this calming rhythm that keeps my mind active without overwhelming it too much. When I was working on my Inspectors report, I put jazz in the background. It helped me stay focused for longer periods and actually helped me make the process more enjoyable. I noticed that I was more productive, and my ideas flowed to me more naturally. Music has become one of the most useful ways to refocus and also to manage stress and stay motivated during the challenging parts of my project. It not only improves my concentration, but it also helps me maintain a positive attitude, even when I feel stuck or unsure. Now, it has become apart of my study habits, it has become something I consistently rely on when I want to get into a creative zone. This might be a simple tool, but it makes a big difference in how I work and how I feel while working.

I respectfully advocate for my needs by…

I’ve learned over the years that asking questions is the most important thing I can do to support my own learning. I have learnt to speak up when I need help, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. I advocate for myself by asking questions, clarifying, or expressing when I am not sure about something. I always try to do this in a respectful manner and thoughtful way, because I am aware that teachers and peers are there to help me, but they can’t always know what I need unless I am able to tell them. While working on this project, there were a few moments when I wasn’t sure how to start on certain parts, like how formal the inspector’s report should sound. Instead of guessing or not doing it at all, I asked my teacher in a respectful way and asked specific questions about the expectations. I also asked for feedback on my ideas from my friends before I finalized them, because I wanted to make sure I was on the right track. When I ask even the simplest questions, it helps me clarify those parts I was unsure about. This way, I get to do better on my assignments because I am aware and is knowing of what I should do and what I should not do. Even if it seems scary at first, having the courage to ask a questions can significantly improve your work. Asking questions can be a pathway to success, and is known to be a smart way to make sure you are learning and engaging. Whether it is during class, over email, or in small group works. I make sure that I can advocate for myself in a way that can set me up for success.