Unit 1 - Activity 2 Sharing Our Characters

Activity Overview

This activity provides a fun, conversational introduction to the topic of identity representation in relation to our selves by asking students to identify and share 3 fictional characters which represent them.

Key Terms and Concepts

VIRTUAL IDENTITIES include but are not limited to game avatars, social media profiles, online shopping accounts, general media representations, and are created and maintained for self-expression, surveillance by law enforcement, as well as corporate user data management.

Driving Questions:

When you think of the words “virtual identity,” what do you think of? Do you think about fictional characters like the ones you chose to represent yourself, or do you think of something that more directly represents you, like a game avatar that you create and customize?

Materials and Preparation:

MATERIALS

1. (Optional) Computer
2. (Optional) Projector

PREPARATION

Students may be assigned identifying their 3 fictional characters as a homework assignment prior to the workshop and/or print out or prepare files to display graphical images of their characters to the class as they present.

Activity Instructions

Sharing Our 3 Fictional Characters (20 minutes)

1. Everyone (including instructors) shares 3 fictional characters which represent themselves
2. Look them up on Google image search and project images in front of the class
3. Explain the specific aspects of each character which relate to your identity
4. ASK: When you think of the words “virtual identity,” what do you think of? Do you think about fictional characters like the ones you chose to represent yourself, or do you think of something that more directly represents you, like a game avatar that you create and customize?