Art Gallery for AP Language
OPTIC is an organized approach for completing a close “reading” of visual or graphic text. As noted in How to Study in College (2001) by Walter Pauk, the five letters in the word OPTIC provide a mnemonic device to remember the five key elements in analyzing a visual.
O is for Overview.
O is for Overview.
- Conduct a brief overview of the main subject of the visual.
- Write a few sentences of summary describing the apparent subject matter and/or action taking place in the visual or graphic text.
- Scrutinize the parts of the visual.
- Note any elements or details that seem important.
- Note and list the most significant details contained within the frame. Consider the following details as you make your list: color, light, contrast, composition, depth of field, décor/items of apparent significance, symbolism & visual metaphor
- Read the title or caption of the visual (if present) for added information.
- Briefly describe the significance of the title as you see it.
- Use the words in the title or caption and the individual parts of the visual to determine connections and relationships within the graphic.
- Briefly describe the interrelationship of the parts you have listed. How do these parts operate together to create a unified visual impact upon the viewer.
- Draw a conclusion about the meaning of the visual as a whole.
- Summarize the message in one or two sentences.
Description of OPTIC taken from and modified http://www.tealighthouse.org/ela/classroom_strategies/strategies.php#sg9_optic
SYNTHESIS SEMINAR IMAGES
Select thumbnail at left to enlarge the image. Click on the enlarged image for more information about the artist and painting.
Select thumbnail at left to enlarge the image. Click on the enlarged image for more information about the artist and painting.
