Courses: English Language Arts (9-12), Media Studies, Public Speaking. English Language Arts (9-12), Media Studies, Public Speaking. Objectives: The unit's goals are for students to build a foundation for analytical thinking, acquire tools for critical reading and analysis of graphic and digital texts, and use visual analysis to engage readers and develop an authentic appreciation for the process of inquiry and discovery. The activities focus on (1) defining an icon; (2) analyzing shape, perspective, and left-right visual structure in order to develop a working definition for what makes an image iconic; and (3) delivering a three- to five-minute oral presentation that unpacks the origins, message, and power of an icon. The unit's goals are for students to build a foundation for analytical thinking, acquire tools for critical reading and analysis of graphic and digital texts, and use visual analysis to engage readers and develop an authentic appreciation for the process of inquiry and discovery. The activities focus on (1) defining an icon; (2) analyzing shape, perspective, and left-right visual structure in order to develop a working definition for what makes an image iconic; and (3) delivering a three- to five-minute oral presentation that unpacks the origins, message, and power of an icon.