Visual Literacy

Interpret posters, advertisements and cartoons

What is Visual Literacy?

Visual literacy is the ability to understand and interpret images such as posters, advertisements, cartoons and maps. We 'read' pictures just like we read words — by looking closely at details and thinking about the message.

Example

Reading an Advertisement

Look at a poster for a school fun run: • What is the event? (School fun run) • When is it? (Look for the date) • Where? (Look for the venue) • Who is it for? (Look at the pictures — families, children?) • What persuasive language is used? ('Don't miss out!', 'Fun for the whole family!')

Understanding Cartoons

A cartoon uses pictures and sometimes words to make a joke or share an opinion. Speech bubbles show what characters say. Thought bubbles show what they think. The expressions on characters' faces help us understand the humour.

Note

Remember

Colours, fonts and picture sizes are chosen on purpose. Bright colours grab attention. Big text is important. When you see an advert, ask: 'What does this want me to do or buy?'

Key Vocabulary

VisualSomething you can see with your eyes

AdvertisementA message that tries to sell something

CartoonA funny drawing, often with speech bubbles

Speech bubbleA shape around words to show someone is talking

PersuadeTo try to make someone do or believe something

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