This assignment is based on Unit 3 and 4 in Tututorial Letter 501. Work through
these two units as well as the pages in your prescribed textbook, Introducing
Children’s Literature by Evans, Joubert and Meier (pp. 78-86; 111-128) before you
attempt the assignment. Answer the questions below in full sentences.
QUESTION 1
1.1. What is the purpose of an illustrative book? Mention two clear purposes. (2
The purpose of an illustrative book is to enhance and complement the text, as
well as to engage and capture the reader's imagination. According to Evans,
Joubert, and Meier (pp. 78-86), illustrations can serve to clarify and expand on
the text, providing visual support for the story and helping young readers to
better understand and interpret the narrative.
Additionally, illustrations can also serve to evoke emotional responses and create
a more immersive reading experience for children. As stated by Evans, Joubert,
and Meier (pp. 111-128), the use of illustrations can elicit empathy and empathy
in the reader, helping to create a deeper connection with the characters and
events of the story.
1.2. A Very Important Tree by Liam Longland, Heni’Z Creative Studio and Elana
Bregin (the book is available as a pdf file under “Additional Resources” on
myUnisa) is considered a picture book. What would you add to the book to
make it an illustrative book? (2
In order to make A Very Important Tree an illustrative book, additional text
would need to be included to provide a more detailed and comprehensive story.
Illustrative books typically contain a balance of text and illustrations, with the
illustrations contributing to the overall narrative. In this case, the addition of
more text would help to further develop the plot and characters, while the
illustrations could complement and enhance the storytelling.