This article describes how the use of interactive molecular graphics makes a unique and important contribution to student learning of biochemistry and molecular biology at any level. These authors developed the concept of the kinemage (from "kinetic image"), a different way of organizing computer graphics that is aimed explicitly at the communication of specific ideas in 3-D. It is a two-step process with the kinemage file authored from the atomic coordinates by one person and the kinemage then displayed in Mage (a 3D vector display program for kinemage graphics) to be explored open-endedly by that same person or by someone else (e.g. the student); thus, it is like a textbook illustration brought to life. This article describes the importance of teaching with molecular graphics and discusses several practical and strategic issues of concern in assigning molecular graphics homework exercises. The authors conclude that, for best effectiveness, the graphics should primarily be worked through by individual students at their own pace, answering questions whose timely completion is monitored although not necessarily graded. Molecular graphics use in biochemistry teaching has two complementary goals: to enhance learning of the subject matter and to develop analytical skills of a new sort. The relative emphasis between those two goals shifts depending on the level and timing of a course, but both should always be present. (Contains 4 figures.)