Political Cartoon Analysis Worksheet

U.S. History

Directions: Choose one 9/11 political cartoon from the packet. Complete the analysis worksheet below.

Step 1: What political cartoon did you choose? (circle the number below)

IIIIIIIVVVI VII

Step 2: Visuals

List the objects or people you see in the cartoon. / On the cartoon, put a “X” next to the objects that are symbols / List what you think each symbol means
Example:
-Flag
-Eagle
-Black Crow on TOP of the flag / / The flag represents the United States. The black crow represent Jim Crow laws—laws that ruled the Southern States. The eagle represents freedom and equality—ending “separate but equal” Jim Crow laws.
Your Turn:

Step 3: Words (Not all political cartoons have words)

  • Identify the political cartoon caption and/or title:
  • List any words, phrases, or dialog(within the actual cartoon) used by the cartoonist to identify objects or people within the political cartoon:
  • Which words, phrases, or dialog appear to be the most significant? Why?
  • Come up with adjectives that describe the emotions portrayed in the political cartoons?

Step 4: Action and Meaning

  • Describe the action taking place in the political cartoon:
  • What facial expressions are portrayed in the political cartoon?
  • Identify special-interest groups (i.e., NAACP, Tea Party) that would either agree or disagree with the political cartoon’s message.
  • What political event or idea is the political cartoon referring to?
  • Whose opinion or point of view is NOT being represented in this cartoon?
  • Do you like the cartoon? How is the political cartoon effective, in your opinion?

Step 5: Persuasive Techniques

Check all the boxes below that represent the persuasive technique used in your chosen political cartoon:

 Symbolism  Exaggeration and Caricature  Captions and Labels  Analogy  Irony

Step 6: Time to Create Your Own Political Cartoon

Construct a political cartoon on either a current event, or an event from the Gilded Age Period. Teacher approval needed for chosen topic….ask first!!!!!

Materials: Paper, colored pencils, and a ruler

Include the following:
-Title at the top of the page
-Must be in color
-Must include symbols
-Must have a caption or words / Sample Topics:
-Immigration (now or then)
-1896 Presidential Election
-Gold vs. Silver issue
-William Jennings Bryan
-Problems of Farmers
-Ellis Island or Angel Island
-Chinese Exclusion Act
-Gentlemen’s Agreement
-Populist Party
-Goals of the Populist Party
-Today’s Role of Terror