Activity Overview
This project is the perfect way for students to summarize the plot of a graphic novel that they have read, transfer their knowledge of another piece of literature into graphic novel form or use their imaginations and write their own graphic novel! Many popular novels have been turned into graphic novels to meet a broader audience and introduce students of all abilities to rich literary content.
Some popular examples of classic literature turned into graphic novels are:
- The Giver: The Graphic Novel by Lois Lowry and P. Craig Russell
- Anne Frank's Diary: The Graphic Adaptation by Anne Frank, David Polonsky and Ari Folman
- A Wrinkle in Time: The Graphic Novel by Madeleine L'Engle and Hope Larson./li>
Some examples of award-winning graphic novels that elementary students love are:
- Smile by Raina Telgemeier
- El Deafo by Cece Bell
- Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
- Bone by Jeff Smith
- New Kid by Jerry Craft
Check out our many more versatile Graphic Novel Templates! Remember, when giving your students an assignment in Storyboard That, you can add as many templates as you like!
For more ideas and inspiration, check out our Graphic Novel Projects in the Classroom!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a Graphic Novel Poster for a book you have read, or write your own!
Student Instructions:
- Within the template provided, add images and text to explain the plot of your story in sequence.
- Add appropriate items, characters and scenes to create the images.
- Look under "Speech Bubbles" to add dialogue and text.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plot and Design | Poster includes at least 4-6 images that accurately re-tell the story. Dialogue and descriptions match the images and enhance understanding. It is evident that time and care were taken to create a visually appealing poster. | Poster includes less than 4 images and descriptions and dialogue do not always match the images. It is evident that time and care were taken but there is some important information missing. | Poster includes less than 2 images and does not depict the important parts of the story. Descriptions and dialogue are missing or do not match the images. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar are mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling and grammar have errors which hinder understanding. | Text is very difficult to understand. |
How To Pick Scenes for Creating the Graphic Novel
Introduce Graphic Novels
Before starting, teachers should familiarize the students with the concept of graphic novels. Some students might be familiar because of manga and comic books so they can also help other class fellows get familiar with the concept.
Induce a Class Discussion
Ask the students which scenes they think play the most important part in the story and which scenes they think should be included.
Recall Memorable Scenes
After students are done reading the novel, the teachers can ask them which scene was the most memorable and iconic for them. If a scene is staying in their memory after reading the whole book, it should definitely be included in the graphic novel.
Use Scenes for Visual Appeal
Students can use the scenes that have an impact on the visual appeal of the novel the most. They can also go with the scenes that they think they can portray in the best way to convey the actual story to the audience in an engaging manner.
Make Groups
In order to encourage collaboration, teachers can divide the class into groups and assign them a few scenes from the novels and at the end, all groups’ work can be combined to create one novel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creating a Graphic Novel
What are some necessary components that students can include in their graphic novels?
A graphic novel usually consists of both text and visual elements. Panels, gutters, speech bubbles, captions, characters, and a narrative organization are important elements. Besides these basic elements, students can search for more advanced elements and take inspiration from their favorite graphic novels to add their own creative elements to their graphic novels.
What is the significance of visual elements in storytelling?
A graphic novel's main component is its visual storytelling. It entails using composition, framing, and pictures to tell the story. Students can focus on how the story is enhanced and complemented by the images. The visual elements also grab the attention of the readers and give them a chance to make their own interpretations of the narrative.
How can students take inspiration from already existing graphic novels?
Students can better comprehend various styles, storytelling methods, and approaches to the visual narrative by studying already published graphic novels. Urge the students to examine and glean ideas from a wide variety of graphic books. Already existing novels can also clarify any confusion regarding the layout and composition that students are facing and provide them with various insights and takeaways.
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