Topic > The Importance of Picture Books in Education - 1239

When we think about picture books and their role in education, many associate their learning purpose with the primary sector. It is important to consider that although a text may appear to be a "picture book", it may not be intended or even appropriate for young readers. (Pearson, 2005). With the illustrations and text evident throughout the picture books, it could be suggested that they support creative thinking and the potential for it to shape writing for secondary school students. Highlighted by Wolfenbarger & Styles (2003), picture books are intriguing, as text and images rarely tell exactly the same story. This prevents readers from responding to each element of the book with new meaning, providing more detail to characters, settings, conflicts, and resolutions. The Australian English Curriculum (2013) highlights the importance of using 'multimodal' texts in our classroom. , as it allows students to connect with and appreciate literature. In recent times, education as a whole is trying to move away from the traditional way of teaching English (National Council of Teachers, 2010), which in turn allows teachers to adapt to new practices for change. If we further understand the purpose of picture books and the connection they have to the “whys” and “hows” of a child's development (Maureen McLaughlin, 2008), then teachers may reconsider how to integrate and use them as a resource in their secondary classroom. As Debbie Draper (2010) notes from the visualization and visual literacy framework, “the use of picture books in a secondary setting allows for personal connections and insights, creative engagements, and critical responses.” Just as novels have themes, characters, plots and real-life applications, so illustrations... center of paper... recognize that their teacher is brave enough to use picture books in class and will find inspiration in wanting to create their own multimodal texts and do research outside of school to find corresponding texts (Community club, 2014). Ultimately, picture books are a unique resource that could play a significant role in a secondary classroom. Picture books are an art form and can be used as a teaching tool for secondary school students. One's age does not prevent people from learning material that they can customize for real-life application. It is important to keep in mind that there is still power behind the content of images, despite the amount of words associated with a novel. Students and teachers can create a meaningful, contextual literary experience that allows for additional curricular incentives; go further.