Cartoon reading

Stereotypes arise in children's lives from their direct experience and also from the media. Today, television and movies serve as an important socializing function supplying many children with images that can form, change, and reinforce stereotypes. Researchers have found that by the time children enter elementary school, they have already developed negative views of older adults.

stereotype is a preconceived idea that attributes certain characteristics (in general) to all the members of class or set. The term is often used with a negative connotation when referring to an oversimplified, exaggerated, or demeaning assumption that a particular individual possesses the characteristics associated with the class due to his or her membership in it. Stereotypes can be used to deny individuals respect or legitimacy based on their membership in that group.

Use this guide to identify the persuasive techniques used in cartoons.

Symbolism Cartoonists use simple objects, or symbols, to stand for larger

concepts or ideas.

Exaggeration

Sometimes cartoonists overdo, or exaggerate, the physical characteristics of people or things in order to make a point.

Labeling Cartoonists often label objects or people to make it clear exactly

what they stand for.

Analogy

An analogy is a comparison between two unlike things that share some characteristics. By comparing a complex issue or situation with a more familiar one, cartoonists can help their readers see it in a different light.

Irony

Irony is the difference between the ways things are and the way things should be, or the way things are expected to be. Cartoonists often use irony to express their opinion on an issue.

After the students have completed the questionnaire, discuss After the students have completed the questionnaire, discuss their findings. their findings.

What is the event or issue that inspired the cartoon? How do you know?

Are there any real people or places in the cartoon? If not, what images are portrayed?

Identify the specific artistic techniques used in the cartoon (e.g., symbolism, analogy,exaggeration, labeling, and irony). What is the artist trying to show the reader by using these techniques?

Are there aspects of the cartoon (e.g., clothing styles, animals, or activities) that serve as symbols (metaphors) that represent the cartoonist’s point of view?

What action is taking place in the cartoon?

Do you believe the cartoonist intends to produce a particular emotional response?

Do you believe this cartoon is successful in producing the effect the artist intended? Explain why or why not.

How were the different groups (e.g., race, sex) portrayed?

Do you think someone's opinions about other groups of people might be influenced at all by the comic books read? How about you? Might yours?

what do you think is the ‘message’ of this cartoon?

Who is the ‘target’?

Do you recognize the character?

Look at the expressions, are they happy?

Does this image send a good or bad impression? Why?