Meaning-Making Across Modes: Visual-Written Integration in UAE Classrooms

In my Arabic classes in Abu Dhabi, I use visual essays where students combine images and writing to interpret poems or historical texts. This process shows the power of synaesthesia, as students shift between visual and written modes to express meaning. By designing posters with symbols, colors, and commentary, they engage in deeper learning and personal interpretation. This multimodal approach supports creativity and language development, especially for students who think visually. Compared to traditional writing tasks, it empowers learners to build meaning in diverse ways, making learning more engaging and inclusive.