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Remember the cartoon we looked at previously? These cartoons are a great way to convey an opinion in a way that is persuasive. The purpose of these political cartoons is to bring to light some of the more interesting points about a public figure, government decision or news event. Using symbols to represent an idea, cartoonists are able to convey a serious message in a comical way. Using the image on page 74, we will learn how to create our own cartoon.
How to Read a Political Cartoon
How to Read a Political Cartoon
Symbols
Symbols
What symbols do you see represented in the image? These symbols are carefully chosen in order to represent an idea.
What do you notice in the picture:
a jail cell
a person who looks to be a youth
Situation
Situation
Using a situation an event is used to make a point on an issue
What are the smaller details that indicate what the situation is:
The footprints show us that the youth was put in jail for something
Notice the door is still locked
The boy has escaped through the too-wide bars
Notice the look on his face. What do you think is going through his mind?
Message
Message
What is the main point or idea the cartoon is depicting? Can you explain in one sentence what is being said?
In this image you may feel it is showing that the jail didn't stop the youth from getting out of jail. Now take it one step forward and use your own words to describe what the symbols are representing:
"The youth justice system does not stop young offenders" (page 74)
What do you think the message in this cartoon is?
What do you think the message in this cartoon is?
Creating a Political Cartoons
Creating a Political Cartoons
Keeping in mind that you are trying to portray a message, perspective or point of view on a topic, event or people, you want to make sure you consider the following points:
Wit and humour used
Exaggeration of people or events are useful not only for comic relief
Must be based on facts
Can be done digitally or hand drawn
Caricatures are are exaggerations of human features.
Symbols that represent your topic/people are important for illustrating the theme
Communicate your thoughts using speech bubbles, labels and captions
Assignment
Assignment
We will select a controversial topic or a significant event to depict in a political cartoon
Create your own political cartoon using the following criteria:
Creative and original image that clearly illustrates your chosen topic
Dialogue, caption, labels or catch phrase must be included
One-page written analysis of your cartoon including:
Analysis of the symbols and how they relate to the overall message
Analysis of the situation and how your cartoon helps to reflect your thoughts
Explanation of the message being portrayed
Reference list at the end of the written analysis that indicates where you go your facts from
Process
Determine the answer to the following questions by reviewing our current events:
What is the issue I want to write about?
What issue stands out to you?
Was there something that shocked you or made you feel upset about?
Is there an injustice or something that needs to be changed?
Who are the main people involved in the event/situation?
How will you symbolize the groups or people involved to make them recognizable?
What words or phrases will you use to communicate the message?
What side of the event are you on?
Why do you feel this way and what should be done?
Write a summary of the situation/issue/concern and what you feel should be done.
Think of an example of something that symbolizes your summary
Sketch your cartoon and be sure to include ensuring that it clearly shows the SYMBOLS, SITUATION, and MESSAGE
For your analysis of the cartoon, be sure to include the answers to the following questions:
Why should we care?
What should we do about it?
Why is this important?
Who is to blame?
What does this say about what you believe?
Links of political cartoon examples:
http://www.politicalcartoons.com/
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