Question

The cartoon is effective for several reasons. First, it is on a familiar topic. The overuse of tablets and smartphones is an issue that many people know about. Having a child with his face buried in a tablet satirizes the priorities of children today. Also, readers can easily grasp the cartoonist’s perspective that these gadgets keep us from enjoying the world around us. As the boy studies his tablet, he misses the total eclipse in the background. The cartoon is also amusing, which engages readers. At the same time, it makes us think and persuades us that children should use technology only on a limited basis.

What did you include in your response? Check all that apply.

satire and irony
symbols and labels
a relatable issue
an emotional reaction

Answer 1

- satire and irony — Yes (you write “satirizes the priorities” and describe the ironic situation of the boy missing the eclipse).
- symbols and labels — No (you don’t mention symbolic elements or labeling in the cartoon).
- a relatable issue — Yes (you call it a “familiar topic” and note overuse of tablets/smartphones).
- an emotional reaction — Yes (you say the cartoon is “amusing” and “engages readers”).