Extensions

Some memes use short animated files called GIFs to make a joke or attract attention.

A GIF is a like a very short video clip without sound.

It can help you convey thoughts and feelings.

In this extension, you will insert a GIF into your meme.

As you complete this extension, you will: Make a copy of your meme, Delete the image, Find a GIF that communicates the same idea, and Resize the objects and canvas.

To start, make a copy of the meme you created in the main lesson.

Rename it for this extension.

Then, delete the image to make room for your GIF Open a new browser tab and navigate to images dot google dot com to find a GIF.

Search for a GIF that communicates the same message as your image in a different way.

Use a different keyword than the one you used in the main lesson, so your GIF communicates a different visual message.

Limit your search so that you see only images that you have permission to reuse and animated files.

Choose an animated file that represents your topic.

Next, go to the original source of the GIF.

And copy the URL.

Next, add the animation to your meme using the URL.

Adjust the size.

Since the GIF is the newest object you added to the canvas, it will appear in front of the Word Art and any other objects you added before.

Send it to the back so that you can see your caption again.

Resize your caption to fit the new image.

Make sure your text does not cover up an important part of the image.

Finally, resize the canvas so that it fits your GIF.

You can create dynamic and interesting memes with GIFs to express any topic, idea, or joke.

Now, it’s your turn: Make a copy of your meme, Delete the image, Search online for a GIF that expresses the same idea, Insert the GIF on your canvas, and Resize the objects and background.

In this extension, you will create a meme about your own life.

Memes about your own attitudes or experiences can help you joke about yourself and relate to others.

And, you can share your meme with others to see if they identify with your experiences.

As you complete this extension, you will: Choose an aspect of your life to represent with a meme, Find an image that represents this part of your life, Write a caption that explains the image, and Format the image, caption, and canvas.

To begin, open Google Drive.

Then, create a new drawing, and give it a title.

Choose something about yourself to represent with your meme.

You might use: an event that happened in your life, a habit you have, or a feeling you experience often.

To search for an image, use a keyword related to your life or personality.

Make sure you have the rights to use the image.

Choose an image that reflects this trait or experience.

And insert it on your canvas.

Next, use word art to write a caption that comments on or explains your image.

Choose a font that helps you communicate the “tone” of your meme.

Resize the text.

Change the color of the text so that it stands out against your image.

And increase the “border weight” to make the outline of the text stand out.

Center the text on the page so that you can see both your image and text clearly.

Finally, resize the canvas so that it fits your meme.

Now, it’s your turn: Choose an aspect of your life to represent with a meme, Find an image that represents this part of your life, Write a caption that explains the image, and Format the image, caption, and canvas.

In this extension, you will respond to a story you read by creating a meme.

Use a meme to understand your story better or to give your own perspective on a character, plot point, or theme.

And sharing your meme can draw other people’s attention to aspects of the story they may not have thought of before.

As you complete this extension, you will: Create, title, and resize a new drawing; Find an image that demonstrates your response; to a key moment in the story; Write a caption about it; and Format the image, caption, and canvas.

To begin, choose a story to represent with a meme.

You might choose: a story you studied school, a book you read on your own, or a movie you have seen recently.

Pick a story you feel strongly about, to make it easier to respond with interesting text and images.

When you have chosen your story, open Google Drive.

Then, create a new drawing and rename it.

Resize it.

Now, search for an image that demonstrates your response to your story.

You could use a drawing of the characters or a screenshot of a movie clip.

But to make your meme more interesting, create a metaphor instead.

Search for an image that reflects your thoughts or feelings about a key moment in your story.

For example, if the story surprised you, you might select an image of a surprised animal to demonstrate your shock.

Find the image that captures however you felt about your story.

Choose an image.

Make sure you have the right to use that image.

Resize the image, And center it on the page to make room for the text.

Add a background color so that your text will stand out.

Next, use Word Art to write a caption that comments on or explains your response to the story.

Use the text to tell the viewer more about which scene caused you to respond this way.

Choose a font that supports the message of your caption.

Arrange your text, And change the color so that the text stands out.

Share your meme to show your understanding of the story and help others think about it in new ways.

Now, it’s your turn: Choose a story that you feel strongly about, Find an image that demonstrates your response to the story, Write a caption, and Format the image, caption, and canvas.