*** We will be working with sketchbooks provided by the school. All work will be photographed and digitally submitted for grading via the class shared folder on Google. ***
Credit Hours: 3
This course will examine the method of storytelling in the graphic novel and other formats of sequential art. The history and techniques of sequential art will be introduced. Five to nine major works chosen from various genres and cultural traditions will be studied in depth by examining both the literary and artistic techniques employed by the authors. Students will be expected to complete both academic/research-based and creative projects.
Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
demonstrate, through written work and oral discussion, an understanding of the genre of graphic novel and sequential art;
demonstrate, through written work and oral discussion, an understanding of the major techniques of storytelling employed by the sequential artist;
analyze, through written work and oral discussion, the stylistic devices both textual and graphic in a work of sequential art; and
demonstrate, through written work and oral discussion, a knowledge of the history of sequential art.
This course will cover the concept creation, character development, figure drawing, storyboarding and layout of comic illustration. Students will learn the penciling, inking and story development process. During our 20 weeks, students will also learn the history of comics as well as today’s cutting edge graphic novels and movie storyboards. Students will compare and contrast the traditional comics to modern and eastern to western format of comic illustration. The final will consist of a portfolio in comic layout. In this curriculum, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the graphic novel genre and the art of sequential storytelling through written assignments and class discussions. They will analyze the major techniques of storytelling employed by sequential artists, demonstrating their insights through both written and oral presentations. Additionally, students will critically evaluate the textual and graphic stylistic devices used in works of sequential art, presenting their analyses in thoughtful essays and engaging discussions. Finally, students will explore the history of sequential art, showcasing their knowledge through research-based writing and oral presentations that reflect a deep understanding of its evolution and impact.
Notes/Assignments
Each week begins with a study assignment that we will complete over the week. All assignments are due on Fridays (unless the school calendar/snow days/vacations change the week format).
There is NO make up work or extra credit provided in this class.
Recommended Text
Draw Comics The Marvel WayComplete a 6 page comic on ComicLife
The comic may use images from the internet as panels.
The final comic must communicate a CLEAR story.
Use everyday photos to make up your story. Consider different angles and shots for each panel.
Expectations
Students are expected to use class time given on assignments. If distractions such as phones or internet research not directly related to the current assignment, surrender of phones and limitations of technology will be enacted. All due dates are FINAL (medical excuses will reschedule due dates). Abuse of class materials will result in student having to provide their own. Technology issues should be addressed to the school.
The reader should be able to follow your story and the characters to a final conclusion.
The images should be modified with filters to create a unified visual story.
Add text balloons, caption boxes and sound effects to communicate your short story.
Add backgrounds, shadows, and other special effects to enhance your story.
All six pages are due on Monday in class.
THE FINAL COMIC MUST BE AN ORIGINAL IDEA USING CHARACTERS NOT CREATED BY OTHER COMIC BOOKS, NOVELS, MOVIES, OR COMMERCIALS.