What Is Learning Target Clip Art?
Learning target clip art is a collection of simple, visual icons that represent specific educational goals. Teachers use these graphics to clarify what students should know or be able to do by the end of a lesson. When displayed on a whiteboard, slide deck, or printable handout, the clip art acts as a visual reminder that keeps the classroom focus aligned with the intended outcome.
Why Visual Targets Work in the Classroom
Research shows that visual cues improve memory retention, especially for young learners. In Lori Laliberte’s kindergarten class at the Odyssey School in Denver, CO, students begin each day with an “unpacking” routine. During unpacking, children sort materials, review the day’s agenda, and identify the learning target displayed as a bright icon. This routine helps them connect the abstract wording of a target with a concrete image, making the goal more accessible.
Key Benefits
- Clarity – A single picture can convey a concept faster than a paragraph of text.
- Engagement – Colorful icons capture attention and motivate students to aim for the target.
- Consistency – Using the same set of clip art across subjects builds a visual language that students recognize.
- Flexibility – Clip art can be adapted for digital tools like PowToon, Explain Everything™, or interactive whiteboards.
Creating Effective Learning Target Clip Art
Designing clip art that truly supports instruction involves more than picking a cute picture. Follow these steps to ensure your icons are pedagogically sound and visually appealing.
1. Start With the End in Mind
Before you draw or download an image, write a clear, measurable learning target. For example, “Students will identify the three states of matter.” Then choose an icon that represents solids, liquids, and gases—perhaps a snowflake, a water droplet, and a cloud. This approach mirrors the “beginning with the end in mind” principle highlighted in many instructional design frameworks.
2. Choose Readable Fonts
When you pair text with your clip art, font choice matters. Sans‑serif fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, or Open Sans are easiest for young readers. Avoid decorative fonts that can blur the connection between the word and the image. Test the combination on a screen and in print to ensure legibility.
3. Keep the Design Simple
Effective clip art uses clean lines, limited colors, and minimal detail. Overly complex graphics can overwhelm students, especially those with visual processing challenges. Aim for a silhouette style that can be recognized at a glance.
4. Use Consistent Color Coding
Assign a color palette to different subject areas—blue for science, green for math, red for language arts. Consistency helps students quickly categorize the target without reading the text.
5. Test With Real Learners
Show the icon to a few students before finalizing it. Ask, “What do you think this picture means?” Their responses will reveal whether
