Discussion Strategy: Personal Prompt (Quick Tip)

This activity can be done in a classroom setting, virtual setting, or in a gallery.

Virtual Version:

• Select 6-10 works of art that could fit a similar theme, time period, or style. Each participant will get a prompt which they consider silently. Then, they will browse the provided collection of art and select a work of art that aligns with the prompt.
• Once everyone has selected a work of art, participants read their prompt aloud and introduce the work to the rest of the group. Participants should discuss the connection between the prompt and the work of art they have selected.
• It is a good idea to let participants know in advance that they will be asked to share the reasons behind the connection they have made. If a visitor is unhappy with the prompt on their card they may exchange it for a different one, but only once.

Sample Worksheet for a virtual or classroom activity.

In-person version:

At a museum: participants are led into any gallery.

In the classroom: Post reproductions of art on the walls in your classroom space.

• Each participant draws a card or slip of paper featuring a single prompt. Participants silently read their prompts, browse the gallery or classroom space with their prompt in mind, and select a work of art that aligns with it.
• Once everyone has selected a work of art, participants read their prompt aloud and introduce the work to the rest of the group. Participants should discuss the connection between the prompt and the work of art they have selected.
• It is a good idea to let participants know in advance that they will be asked to share the reasons behind the connection they have made. If a visitor is unhappy with the prompt on their card they may exchange it for a different one, but only once.

Possible prompts:

• Find a work of art that connects with a memory from your childhood. Be prepared to share why you made this choice.
• Find a work of art that reminds you of something you had forgotten. Be prepared to share why you made this choice.
• Find a work of art that makes you feel glad when you look at it. Be prepared to share why you made this choice.
• Find a work of art that you would want to have in your home. Be prepared to share why you made this choice.
• Find a work of art that includes images or symbols that are difficult for you to relate to. Be prepared to share why you made this choice.
• Find a work of art that features a value or an idea you hold dear. Be prepared to share why you made this choice.

Adapted from the work of Ray Williams.

Williams, Ray. “Honoring the Personal Response: A Strategy for Serving the Public Hunger for Connection.” The Journal of Museum Education. Vol. 35, No. 1, Museum Education and Public Value. New Ideas and Strategies (SPRING 2010), pp. 93-102 (10 pages).