Describing Images Model One: Science

Science curricula commonly use images to demonstrate processes. For example, a diagram can illustrate and explain phenomena such as evaporation. The diagram is an effective tool for many learners, but for students who are unable to see or process visual information, an image by itself to communicate the concept and achieve the learning goal is insufficient. ALT text and long descriptions can increase accessibility for all students by emphasizing critical features of the image.

Learning Goal ALT-Tag longdesc Students will understand the cycle of evaporation Diagram of the cycle of evaporation. In this diagram of evaporation, a lake is drawn next to a tree on a small hill with the sky in the background. A red arrow—indicating heat—is going from the earth up toward the sun, and a blue arrow—indicating moisture—is coming down from a rain cloud toward the earth and refilling the lake.