Graphic Novels in the Classroom

Graphic Novels in the ClassroomJulia Daley

When to Use…

0Graphic novels are best used in the classroom when tied with a literary novel or complicated subject.0 Examples:0 Using Maus with discussions of the Holocaust0 Using the graphic novel The Illiad with the classical text

0Graphic novels can also be used for analysis of:0 Dialogue, Scene Setting, Pacing, Symbolism, Plot, etc.

Why to Use:

0To promote literacy

0To catch student interest

0To make complex literary texts accessible

0To teach new (and old) types of analysis

Notes of Caution

0Graphic Novels can often contain controversial topics and images.

0 Remember to thoroughly read a graphic novel before using it in class

0 Be prepared to seek permission from school, parents

0 There is always the option of showing limited sections of a given graphic novel

Now for Some Examples!

With

Maus: a Pulitzer Prize winner. Best used with any lesson regarding the Holocaust and World War II.

0Watchmen:0 (Features Graphic Images,

Homosexuality, Unreliable Narrators, and more. Must be carefully considered)

Uses: to illustrate the use of irony, comment on Moore’s view of American history and politics.

0Best used with any discussion/lesson regarding the US Constitution0 (Is appropriate for all ages)

0 Macbeth was illustrated with three different versions: an unabridged, original Shakespeare; a modern version of the language; and a quick, action packed version. All three can be used effectively in conjunction with the play.

0Kingdom Come: 0 (Minor swearing)0 Background on the super

heroes may need to be presented by the teacher

0 How to use: for analysis of themes, such as religion, political overtones, and social commentary.

0Dawn Land:0 (Features some swearing,

nudity)

0Best used with lessons involving Native Americans.