Sunday, September 23, 2018

USING GRAPHIC NOVELS AND COMICS IN THE CLASSROOM Every picture tells many possible stories- Andrew Miller


                The purpose of using graphic novels within a classroom is to help reluctant readers connect with text. Graphic novels can also be used for answering critical questions and providing evidence for arguments. While reading comics is great for students who can’t connect with text, producing comics can be fundamental in helping students understand the text. When posing the question, “What is a reoccurring theme throughout the text?” students can draw a comic representing the theme- either with main characters or whatever represents the text.

                Graphic novels can be considered their own genre but, with reconstruction of classics- graphic novel can fit into any genre. Graphic novels contain literary elements word text has- symbol, character, and plot. Giving a diverse text will help students connect and create arguments. Using graphic novels can create a way for students to access different texts. Along with podcast and videos- students can learn on another platform and connect with it.

                Using graphic novels within the classroom can help students reach higher order thinking skills. Graphic novels promote complex analysis and evaluation of a text. Interrupting picture can bring out more interruptions than interrupting words. As the saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Students will looks at colors, textures, words, text boxes, frames, and camera angles- and make argument or analysis of the information. It is the teacher’s job to help students relate to text and come up with analysis- whether it’s through prompts or classroom discussion. There is no limit on how to reach students within the classroom. If a student connects with a text that is a graphic novel- use it in the classroom. If a student can understand a concept through podcast or video- use it within the classroom. There is no limit to the resources graphic novels can bring to the classroom.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Learning Letter

During this quarter I have learned a lot about myself as a teacher and student. The first thing that stuck out to me as a positive was the b...