Seeing+Literacy

=Seeing Literacy=

What is visual literacy?
According to this site, visual literacy is the reading and writing of visual texts. So if you can read a map or understand common symbols and icons, then you are visually literate.

In the Visual Literacy Wikipedia entry, this is the definition.
 * Visual literacy** is the ability to [|interpret], negotiate, and make meaning from information presented in the form of an [|image]. Visual literacy is based on the idea that [|pictures] can be “read” and that meaning can be communicated through a process of reading.

Why is it important?
Visual literacy helps students understand texts in deeper ways and also allows students to develop higher order thinking skills. Visual literacy can give students an advantage on standardized tests, too, because many tests include pictures, diagrams, charts, and other visuals for students to interpret, analyze, and evaluate.

How can we teach it?
1. Use digital photos that you take to teach concepts to your students. 2. Use digital photos and other digital images from the web to teach concepts to your students. 3. Allow students to create their own digital images with drawing/design programs. 4. Allow students to create their own digital photos with digital cameras.