GED 2002 Teachers' Handbook of Lesson Plans

Activity Title - Political Cartoons - Funny and Not Funny

Goal/Objective

Interpret and evaluate the meaning of political cartoons.

Lesson Outline/Introduction

People in our society have many different political views on subjects that range from local, state, national, and world happenings.

Activity

Discuss what a political cartoon is and for what reasons a political cartoon may be drawn. Use current political cartoons for students to use in large and small group settings. Use cartoons with topics your students are familiar with. Students will analyze the cartoons and what is humorous about them. Put students in groups of 4-6 and give them the same cartoon to write a short evaluative paragraph and share with the class.

Debriefing/Evaluation Activity

Discuss the cartoon and why it would be important for a person to know the intent and message it brings to the student.

Materials, Texts, Realia, Handouts

Extension Activity

Political Cartoon of the Day - Begin each class with a political cartoon. Have students express the meaning of the cartoon in one sentence.

ESE Accommodations

Real-Life Connection

Students may wish to draw a cartoon or locate cartoons that express their opinions.

Activity Title - Political Cartoons - Funny and Not Funny

Introduction

Ask: How many of you turn to the political cartoons? How many of you read political cartoons? What is a political cartoon?

Say: Some political cartoons have overtones about an important happening within a community or within the country or world.

Main Activity

Ask: What are some reasons why persons draw cartoons? Answers should include things such as they pay tribute to someone or something or they contain a personal criticism of the subject.

Say: Look at some political cartoons and decide within your groups what is the intent of the each cartoonist. These cartoons may someday record important happenings for the future.

Ask: Do you agree with the cartoonist?

Have students divide into groups and discuss cartoons. Share your conclusion.

Closure/Conclusion

Ask: Does the intent behind a political cartoon cause you to view the political issue differently?

Discuss the student's answers.

Follow-up lessons/Activities

Brainstorm and list political issues that are happening in the community.