Line, shape, color and texture have always been the universal components of visual expression. Together these elements form a visual language. This packet is designed to be used as part of the Thematic Tour "First Look" offered by the Georgia Department of Education. The material explores some of the ways people use pictorial language; feelings, ideas, experiences, and beliefs can all be communicated by visual means. In art, both a sender and a receiver are required for completeness of communication. This resource encourages students to be sensitive receivers of the art message by fostering their looking skills. Two lessons are included in the packet along with a selection of classroom activities. The first lesson introduces vocabulary of basic concepts. Worksheet activities reinforce those lesson objectives. The second lesson is a guided discussion of eight slides from the High Museum's collection. Exercises are given for applying knowledge about lines, shapes, colors, and textures to the process of actively looking at works of art. These lessons are designed to be used before a visit to the High Museum, but also are appropriate for independent use. (MM)