Television and cartoon viewing among children is indeed high. This dissertation starts from the necessity to find out its importance and effects in children’s lives. It discusses the relationship between children, television and cartoons and the need for teacher’s awareness of these influences. It indicates the need for teachers to possess a degree of television and cartoons language and a creative ability to utilize these potential tools in teaching, especially in primary classes.

This dissertation researches and evaluates which cartoons are popular among Maltese children and the time spent watching these cartoons. An observation of a lesson without the use of cartoons and one with their use is conducted. An analysis of the differences and effectiveness of a pedagogy including cartoons is analysed after observations of experimental and control teaching using cartoons and interviews with children.

This research discusses the effectiveness of the use of cartoon language and characters in the classroom as an instigation of learner attention and motivation. It shows that the use of cartoon language and characters in the classroom is a helpful tool, as there is indicated that learning is more effective and enjoyable to children. A booklet of lesson plans using cartoon language and characters are also presented to give a clear example of this pedagogy.

May 2003

Tutor: Mr. J Giordmaina
Advisor: Dr. Gorg Mallia

Keywords:- Animated Cartoons; Children’s Television Viewing; Cartoon Language; Gender Differences; Lesson Plans