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Pictures and words tell a story together — Literature, 4–6 years

In picture books, we learn by looking at what the pictures show as well as listening to the words.

Two ways to tell

In a picture book, the words may tell us that a boy is walking home while the picture shows his umbrella turning inside out. We read both parts together. The picture can add a detail, show a feeling or give a clue the words leave out.

Why look closely at the picture?

Words cannot show every tiny clue, especially in a picture book made for shared reading. Looking closely helps us notice a hidden toy, a character’s face or what is happening behind the main action. We can then make a thoughtful guess and check it against the next page.

Reading one page

Suppose the words say, The dog waited. In the picture, the dog sits beside a packed bag, watches the door and holds a red scarf. We can say the picture suggests the dog expects someone. The words give the action; the picture gives extra clues.

The picture is not decoration

It is easy to listen only to the words because an adult reads them aloud. But then we may miss the small mouse hiding under the table or the face that changes before the words mention it. Looking at the picture is another way of reading, not a distraction.

Reading signs and faces

Outside books, you use pictures to understand a road sign, a map, a label or a comic. You also read a friend’s face and movements for clues, while remembering that a clue is not proof. Words, pictures and careful questions work best together.

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