This unit of work from Reading Australia is based on the picture book ‘The red tree’ by Shaun Tan. The unit explores the way meaning is made through characterisation, symbol and visual conventions in an unconventional plot. If students do not have a copy of the book, they can go to one of the online versions below.
Structure and features
The unit of work is sequential. It involves:
- Exploring prior knowledge of picture books and the roles of author and illustrator.
- Responding to the text – learning about symbolism, setting, character and theme.
- Examining language patterns and visual conventions of angle, framing, colour, demands and offers.
- Creating text – connecting with the poetry of the text, using readers theatre to create and act out poetry of feelings.
For teachers
Most activities need teacher direction but could be adapted to a shorter unit at home with family support.
Links and files
Teacher notes
Focus areas
- Literature
- Visual literacy
- Narrative.
Curriculum links
- Visual Arts
- Music – the additional link is an example of a soundtrack developed to accompany the images and text.
Assessment
Using images from the text in a PowerPoint, students can demonstrate their knowledge of visual conventions through labelling. They can record their voice or use written notes.
