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TypesTypes of Graphics

Graphics are visual representations created on paper, the computer screen and other surfaces to communicate information. Use graphics to provide an additional channel of communication for learners.

As you select materials, think graphics. For example, The Mask of Lincoln from the National Portrait Gallery shows the many ways Abraham Lincoln was been viewed.

As you build learning environments, think about the inquiry process:

Let's explore seven types of graphics:

  1. Data, charts, and graphics
  2. Diagrams
  3. Illustrations
  4. Maps
  5. Organizers
  6. Images
  7. Symbols

Data, Charts and Graphs

Numeric data are often represented using charts and graphs. Explore an example of social technology and data sharing at Data from Swivel, a collaborative environment for sharing and visualizing data.

Digital Resources

Lessons Across the Curriculum

Seek out online data for your own professional development. This is a great chance to model the use of technology. Try Pew Research Center and Pew Internet & American Life Project.

Inquiry Connection: Data

computer personTry It!
Explore data sources. Create your own survey. Or, try a variety for easy-to-use tools for creating graphics such as Grapher for young learners and Create a Graph for older children.


Diagrams

Diagrams are a simplified visual representation of an object, concept, or idea.

Digital Resources

Lessons Across the Curriculum

Inquiry Connection: Diagram

computer personTry It!
Explore Wikimedia Commons - Diagrams and Google Images for diagrams.


Illustrations

Drawings, paintings, sketches, and etchings are examples of illustrations. These visual representations are intended to communicate an informational or artistic message.

Digital Resources

Lessons Across the Curriculum

Inquiry Connection: Illustrations

computer personTry It!
Explore illustrations. Try Comic Life.


Maps

A map provides a visual representation of an area showing relationships in space.

Digital Resources

Lessons Across the Curriculum

Inquiry Connection: Maps

computer personTry It!
Explore Google Maps.

Organizers

Organizers are effective for showing relationships among data, connections like cause and effect, chronologies of events, and comparisons such as the pros and cons of alternative solutions.

Digital Resources

Lessons Across the Curriculum

Inquiry Connection: Organizers

computer personTry It!
Explore ReadWriteThink organizers.


Images

Digital imaging is the process of creating images from physical objects.

Digital Resources

Lessons Across the Curriculum

Inquiry Connection: Images

computer personTry It!
Explore image collections.


Symbols

Semiotics is the science of signs and symbols. Symbols are visuals used to represent ideas, concepts, or other abstractions.

Digital Resources

Lessons Across the Curriculum

Inquiry Connection: Symbols

 

computer personTry It!
Explore symbols.


For a more in-depth exploration, read the graphic book Graphic Inquiry by Annette Lamb and Danny Callison available from Libraries Unlimited, 2010.

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