This discussion and critique of television programs used in two courses--D102 (vandalism) and M101 (mathematics)--at the British Open University suggests that the television presentation of real life-like raw material can facilitate the comprehension of abstract material inasmuch as it provides concrete illustrations, and provides an opportunity to exercise relating the abstract idea to actual daily instances. It is noted that such comprehension is improved by the use of clear messages and a balance between words and pictures. It is suggested that television employs three means of providing comprehension through visual images--illustration, dramatization, and supplantation--and these three modes of presentation are illustrated by examples from the television programs for the courses. (EW)