13 Visual information in charts, graphs, and photos
An important part of previewing a text is looking for any visual information. The data in charts and graphs and the images in photographs are included by writers to increase the readers’ understanding.
As an example, consider the bar graph below. It shows the diameters of the planets (and one dwarf planet) in our solar system.
Questions for you to answer:
1.) In what order are the planets listed?
2.) What are the four largest planets in the solar system?
Notice that you were able to answer those two questions very quickly! Compare the visual representation from the bar graph with the text of the same information:
Mercury has a diameter of 4,879 km. Venus has a diameter of 12,104 km. Earth has a diameter of 12,756 km. Mars has a diameter of 6,792 km. Jupiter has a diameter of 142,984 km. Saturn has a diameter of 120,536 km. Uranus has a diameter of 51,118 km. Neptune has a diameter of 49,528 km. Pluto has a diameter of 2,376 km.
Simply put, the visual nature of charts and graphs can make information more easily understandable. Be sure to look for this kind of help when you are reading!
Photos and illustrations can also contribute to your understanding of a text.
Verbs are words that indicate actions or events–things that happen. In English, nearly every sentence requires a verb. The verb tells the listener what the subject does or experiences.
Questions for you to answer:
1.) What verb does each picture bring to mind for you?
2.) How do the photos contribute to your understanding of the text?
