Discuss the following questions with the rest of the class: What is the purpose of a dictionary? How might a visual dictionary differ from a textual dictionary? Then, read the Captions and Labels explanation in the Reader’s Toolbox on page 307. Finally, preview the selection, looking at the photographs, captions, and headings.
1. Follow along in your text as your teacher reads page 308. What are the three main headings on this page? What do you learn from each section? How do the photographs, labels, and captions enhance your understanding? Provide specific examples.
2. With a partner, read the second page of the selection. Identify the main headings and analyze the photographs. Jot down your answers to the following questions: What do the photographs from the film add to the dictionary? What do you learn from the labels and captions?
As you read this selection from Star Wars Episode 1: The Visual Dictionary, keep in mind that it contains jargon, or specialized vocabulary. Often science fiction writing contains jargon that is created specifically for the work. If you encounter an unfamiliar word in the selection, use a dictionary to determine whether it is from everyday language or is used only in the Star Wars series. Use the context, including graphics and photographs, to help you unlock the meaning of the word. If you find you are still unable to identify meaning, try using word parts, since much of the jargon is based on actual words and encompasses their meaning.
Meet with two or three other students and discuss what you learned about Star Wars and Obi-Wan Kenobi. If you have seen the movie, discuss how this selection relates to it. Evaluate the presentation of information. Write a paragraph discussing whether you think the dictionary accomplishes the task you identified in the Before Reading activity.