1. Visual Text
Secondary 1 Express

2. Learning Objective
Students would be able to identify and analyse elements of a visual text using P.A.S.T.A.

3. What are visual texts?
Visual texts are mainly mediums that combine images (photographs, graphic art, drawings, posters, films, brochures, website images etc.) and words to convey meaning. Visual texts are created to convey a particular purpose or message, in a particular way.

4. Visual Texts in Examinations
In Paper 2: Comprehension -
Section A [5 marks] – Text 1, will include visuals. Based on the visual text, students are required to answer a variety of questions testing comprehension, and on the use of visuals as well as the use of language for impact.

5. Example of Visual Text 2016 GSS MYE Sec 1 exp

6. P.A.S.T.A: Analysing visual texts
Purpose A
Author S
Significant Element T
Type
Audience

8. An Example

9. Let’s Try together! P
To create awareness about bike theft and to encourage preventive measures A
Singapore Police Force / National Crime Prevention Council S
The shadow/outline of a stolen bicycle, which affirms the issue of bike theft. Text “STOP” is in red to mimic a red traffic light, to further stress on the consequences. (Accept any relevant answers) T
Advocacy ad – promoting an issue/cause
Individuals who own bicycles

10. Let’s Try together! P
To help create awareness that ex-convicts deserve a second chance in life and in society (“Help unlock the second prison”) and to actively help these individuals A
Yellow Ribbon Project – an organization that assists ex-convicts find stability the moment they are released from prison. Even students do not know what YRP is about, they at least must be able to discern that YRP helps ex-convicts S
The tattooed back (stereotypical image of an ex-convict), the post-it (label) to suggest the labels we actually promote when we judge these individuals. Visual pun. There is no actual physical label attached to the ex-convict’s back T
Advocacy advertisement – promoting a cause
In this case, it is the general public. Could be directed at employers, members of society etc

11. Let’s Try the Questions (Examination Style)
What is the overall message of the visual text?

12. Let’s Try the Questions (Examination Style)
How does the author of the visual text convey the message? Comment on a significant element that you find in the visual text.

13. Let’s Try the Questions (Examination Style)
“Help remove the prejudice”. Why do you think there is a prejudice?

14. Let’s Try the Questions (Examination Style)
Give one word to describe the tone of the visual text.

15. Let’s Try the Questions (Examination Style)
Identify the author of the visual text. What are some of the objectives of the organisation?

16. Homework
Page 53 – 56 of Activity Book