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Chapter 9: Graphics and

Visual LiteracyEfficient and

Flexible Reading,

8/eKathleen T. McWhorter

© 2007 Pearson Education, Inc. publishing as Longman Publishers.

1. To read graphics effectively.

2. To integrate text and graphics.

3. To interpret and evaluate graphic and visual sources.

In this chapter you will learn:

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Graphics:

• Consolidate Information.

• Explain and Illustrate.

• Dramatize Information.

• Display Trends, Patterns, and Variations.

Why Graphics Are Used

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A Strategy for Reading Graphics

1. Read the title or caption and legend.

2. Determine how the graphic is organized.

3. Determine what variables the graphic is concerned with.

4. Determine the scale or unit of measurement.

5. Identify the trend(s), pattern(s), or relationship(s) the graphic is intended to show.

6. Read any footnotes and

identify the source.

7. Make a brief summary note.1st Q tr

2nd Q tr

3rd Q tr

4th Q tr

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Integrating Text and Graphics

• Notice graphics when pre-reading.• Refer to graphics when directed by the

author.• Read the graphic.• Move back and forth between text and

graphs.• Determine why the writer included the

graphic.

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Types of Graphics: Photographs

• Add interest.• Help visualization

of an event, concept, or feeling.• Provide an example of a concept.• Illustrate classification systems.• Create emotional responses.• Create an appreciation of beauty.

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Two types of Maps:• Locational maps show

exact positions of countries,

cities, states, rivers,

mountains, etc.

• Thematic maps provide

statistical or factual

information about a

particular area or region.

Types of Graphics: Maps

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Use the following steps when reading tables:

1. Determine how the data are classified or divided.

2. Make comparisons and look for trends.

3. Draw conclusions.

Types of Graphics: Tables

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Bar Graphs:

• Used to compare quantities or amounts.

• Show changes over time.

• Emphasize differences.

Types of Graphics: Graphs

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Line Graphs:• Plot information along a vertical and

horizontal axis.

• Include more data than bar graphs.

Types of Graphics: Graphs

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Circle Graphs or Pie charts

• Show whole/part relationships.

• Show how parts of a unit have been divided or classified.

Types of Graphics: Graphs

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Types of Graphics: Diagrams

•Are drawings that explain an object, idea, or process by outlining the item’s organization.

•Their purpose is to simplify and clarify the writer’s explanation.

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Organizational Charts:• Divide an organization, such as a corporation,

hospital, or university into its administrative parts, staff positions, or lines of authority.

Types of Graphics: Charts

R ead in g G rap h ics In teg ra tin g Text & G rap h ics In trep re tin g & E va lu a tin g G rap h ics

G rap h ics an d V isu a l L ite racyTyp e tit le h ere

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Types of Graphics: Flow Charts

Reading Flow Charts:

•Decide what process the flowchart shows.•Follow the chart, using the arrows for each step.•Describe the process in your own words.

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• Combine a chart and a graph using symbols or drawings to present information.

• This pictogram represents buildings to show growth in a real estate business.

Types of Graphics: Pictograms

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• Cartoons quickly make a point or simply lighten the text with humor.

• Cartoons often do not have a title or legend and make no reference to the text.

Types of Graphics: Cartoons

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Statistics are subject to manipulation and interpretation, so study graphics with a questioning and critical eye.

For example, when reporting averages, is it:The mean (total divided by #)The median (middle value)The mode (most frequent)

Critical Thinking Tip #9:Analyzing Statistics

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Summary

1. Why are graphics included in your courses?

2. What steps should you take to read graphics more effectively?

3. How can you integrate graphics with their corresponding printed text?

4. What types of graphics are commonly used in textbooks and academic sources?

5. How do I read statistical information?

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