Multidimensional, challenging, and popular with students, comics provide an excellent way to introduce the concept of genres.

This lesson uses comic strip frames to define plot and reinforce the structure that underlies a narrative. Students finish by writing their own original narratives.

This unit focuses on how characters’ identities are constructed in text. When we read, how do we know that a character is acting or speaking according to his or her true nature? When are those actions or speech the result of a role that has been assumed? Using Shakespeare’s Hamlet as an anchor text, students will explore these questions at length in order to analyze the central character. This unit will allow students the opportunity to differentiate between an individual’s (relatively) permanent identity and the various parts that same individual might play in various situations. As they read the play, students will constantly reevaluate Hamlet based on specific lines and interactions with other characters. Under what circumstances does the prince reveal himself truthfully, and why?

This study is particularly relevant to high school students, who often grapple with issues of identity and to reconcile actions and speech that may seem to contradict one’s true nature. By closely examining the variety of ways in which Hamlet can be read as a character, students will develop an understanding of how to regard personality as a multifaceted quality.

Concurrently, students will conduct an investigation of a character in an independent reading book using the same framework. How does this character display his or her true nature in certain situations, and how does he or she assume temporary roles elsewhere? This independent study, along with the class-wide examination of Hamlet , will provide the foundation for students’ performance tasks for this unit. Students will write a paper in which they explain the difference between role playing and establishment of true identity. Using evidence found in Hamlet and their chosen independent reading book, each student will conduct a deep analysis of how an individual may assume several roles to achieve a desired goal, while also maintaining a separate, stable identity.

Ever wondered how comics are made? How about how to draw your own? In this video, Thien Pham, a graphic artist from Oakland, CA, will show you step-by-step how to create your own comic, from writing the plot to drawing the four-panel itself.

An introduction to the literary form of comics - as a comic! Introducing and defining key concepts in comic studies, as well as debunking common myths about comics, this booklet is an introduction to the discipline. Covers topics such as comic terminology, grammar, layout, styles, transitions, and closure, with a self-quiz to take at the end.

This video explores how female identity is constructed through art and storytelling in comics and graphic novels.

Video introduction to simple comics reading, how comics are representational, and the vocabulary of comics. Also includes a brief list of the possible jobs in creating a comic such as writer, artist, penciler, and inker.

Spark the engagement of English-language learners or reluctant readers with the graphic novel "Maus". The visual information provided by the genre serves as a support for reading and critical engagement.

Students get the big picture of the Middle East when they read and analyze Marjane Satrapi's graphic novel "Persepolis".

The lesson plan provides an introduction for instructors on how to incorporate comics and other graphic elements in the World History classroom. A PowerPoint presentation explores the theory of using comics as histories and offers tools and strategies for the critical reading of graphic histories. Two supplemental worksheets suggest specific questions related to comics and a list of modern world history graphic novels.

Students develop their reading, writing, research, and technology skills using graphic novels. As a final activity, students create their own graphic novels using comic software.