I personally feel that graphic novels are a great resource in the classroom. They can be used to introduce the novel, supplement confusing parts/language use, or appeal to readers that prefer text in this format. As a slower reader, I think that having access to graphic novels would have helped me "see" the novel and gather more details without the pressure of having to read it quickly. In thinking about Readicide, adding graphic novels to the mix can add more flow and encourage genuine reading and not just going through the motions and wresting with a novel they may not particularly like.
On the flip side, the graphic novel can leave a lot out. The language is really chopped down and as a reader, we can lose a lot of appreciation and understanding of the original writing. That being said, I would use graphic novels to supplement vs taking the place of the novel. It would be an excellent vehicle to allow students to fulfill the CCSS of comparing different modes of writing and how they add to or take away from the meaning of the text. Or if the class is working on themes, the graphic novel can help highlight the meanings and scenes that occur around the theme.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTgaqVOIOfQ
I liked this video that interviewed a teacher and comic book expert on the subject of comic books (graphic novels) in the classroom. This is just a couple people's ideas on the subject, but I like that they brought in a real teacher and made a good point about appealing to imagination and how much more easily accessible and relevant graphic novels are today (movies, tv shows, etc based on graphic novels, for example). My one negative would be that they focus a lot of the benefit on boys and being appealing to boys, and girls are sort of the afterthought. Now, statistically boys do have more issues with ADD/ADHD and not liking to read, but I'd like to see what the opinions/appeal is for female students and if that even plays a role in their usefulness in the classroom.
No comments:
Post a Comment