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Checklist for Evaluation Editorial Cartoons

The editorial cartoon is memorable when visual and verbal content are unique and piercing with perspective.

Most often teachers can look at a cartoon and know it is "outstanding," "good" or "in need of improvement." How do you convey to students who are developing their skills this gut reaction?

We offer the following guidelines for assessing strength of editorial cartoons.

OVERALL MESSAGE

Initial impression is strong
The idea is pertinent to the intended audience
The idea is expressed in images the intended audience understands

SPATIAL STRENGTH

White space displays image and message
Clear center of visual interest
Proportion is used to heighten message
Perspective is used to heighten message

VISUAL CONTENT

Original; avoids visual clichés
If the editorial cartoon has words, they are readable
Shading adds dimension
Different pen widths and strokes are used
If color is used, color, shades and tones add to message
If color is used, color does not call attention to itself

VERBAL CONTENT

The message communicates directly
Opinion of editorial cartoonist is clear
One message is expressed per cartoon
Grammar is correct
Spelling is correct
Punctuation is correct

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