1. 3-20-14 While we gather, go ahead and log in to your computer. Use your Citadel ID and password. Book Talks: Graphic Novels

2. Why use graphic novels? “[Reading graphic novels] promotes reading for enjoyment and learning across the curriculum.” Katherine Bucher & M. Manning “Reading graphic novels involves different strategies, interests, and concentrations that are more important than ever in reaching a variety of learners.” Adam Martin “Graphic novels and comics can be wonderful tools to motivate reluctant readers, engage multiple literacies, and draw in all types of learners.” Karen Gavigan

3. Why use graphic novels? to increase interaction with (and understanding of, and maybe even appreciation of) art. to improve vocabulary. to increase each student’s likelihood of self-identifying as “a reader.” to help ESL students learn the language better.

4. Tips for using graphic novels: Read each graphic novel (or at least a reliable review) that you put on your shelf – to prevent unhappy surprises. Prepare a rationale for having graphic novels available. Visit local comic stores, book stores, and/or libraries to become familiar with the variety of graphic novels available. Teach a lesson (or at least a minilesson) on how to “read” images and sequential art, as well as how to read graphic novels.

5. Reading graphic novels: elements. http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/comic/vocabulary.html

6. Note, too, the use of narrative without words Pay attention to visual features: body language, facial expressions

7. Use of Perspective, Light & Shadow

8. Use of color

9. Page layout

10. Of course, the skills used for reading graphic novels will also help students “read” a variety of other texts – especially with respect to the use of images, colors, layout ….

11. Book Talks

12. Workshop on formal papers: With your book club members, read your intro aloud. Talk about your thesis. (Is it clear? interesting? worthwhile?) What additional research might you need to do? Suggestions for organization? As time allows, work on your paper. Reconvene at 6:30 to give each group member 5 minutes to reread aloud key passages and ask questions. Papers are due in two weeks (April 3) on the class wiki. (Post the file, not the full text.)

13. Next week: SPRING BREAK! Next meeting: April 3 Be prepared to give us a short version (3-5 minutes) of your formal paper. Bring Book Club #3 books for discussion and book talks. We will dismiss early (6:10) so you can attend the 6:30 talk by Monuments Men author Robert Edsel in the field house.