How do cartoons use visual clichés?

Teachers: Download the lesson and print it out for use in your classroom. (PDF format)

Common Core State Standard
RL.CSS.2/4 Grades 6-12:
Students determine the meaning of political cartoons through the analysis of their literal, symbolic and figurative meanings of the elements the artist used and their effect. Students are asked to describe the overall effect of the cartoon, and how the artist’s choices combine to create that effect.

Finally, students determine the purpose of the cartoon and how it relates to current issues through discussion questions. A blank cartoon is provided to assist students in writing their own caption based on their understanding of the cartoons meaning

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