Stevens, Robert J. and Jared A. Fogel. “Comparing FSA Photographs by Ben Shahn: A Lesson in Media Literacy.” (2009)

Why do some photographs grab our attention, while others are forgotten? The author of this paper begins with a series of questions that provide the framework for the lesson plan presented: Is a photograph simply a record of a moment in space and time, or can it also convey a political message? Can a photo tell us something about the opinions of the person holding the camera? Does it matter whether this person was being paid for taking the picture? This lesson helps social studies students analyze photographs critically, and as a result, better understand how the maker of an image can be a participant in the important public policy debates that each generation must engage in. Two contrasting photos and a colour poster by Ben Shahn (who was working for the Farm Security Administration during the Great Depression) are used. Supporters of Roosevelt’s New Deal hoped that representations of the conditions of impoverished farmers would create public support for the various federal agencies, as well as depicting the success of federal programs. The question of whether the photographers are propagandists is posed. The authors provide several interesting resources and website ideas.