The Talking Teacher is always trying to think outside of the box, and I'm sure, like most of his colleagues, is always thinking of ways to get his students actively engaged in the learning process. So, this year, Graphic Novels were introduced into the class. THE STUDENTS LOVED THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The first was a book called "Ghost" followed by "American Born Chinese" and a few more. I must say, the students ate them up!!! Many are reluctant to try graphic novels in the class and sadly, don't even see them as a viable learning tool, dismissing them as simple "comic books". Sad......
Take a look at this article:
When Art Spiegelman won the Pulitzer Prize for Maus in 1992, graphic novels began to shed their stigma as a childish, escapist genre. Recently, Gene Yang’s American Born Chinese, a narrative weaving the ancient Monkey King fable with contemporary Chinese-American tales, was the first graphic novel nominated for a National Book Award.
“Graphic novels entice students to read because they think of them in the same way they think of video games. Visuals enable students to comprehend and infer from the text,” says sixth grade teacher Donna Kasprowicz, who integrates Yang’s work into her curriculum. Click here to read the rest.
1 comment:
I think you are correct, Talking Teacher. Graphic novels have a place in the media center and in the classroom. This unique genre appeals to a select group of students - but then, all genres attract unique audiences. Thank goodness, there is something for everyone!
You are probably acquainted with Dan Pink's The Adventures of Johnny Bunko, which is written in manga. Some call it a comic book - but it is selling as a career guide! Check it out: http://www.johnnybunko.com/
I've enjoyed reading your blog. Thank you for sharing your good ideas!
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