Graphic Novel

ASSIGNMENT

Students will select a script and visually translate a portion of it into a two-page spread for a graphic novel. The final project should demonstrate thoughtful script analysis, strong storytelling skills, and the application of design principles to create a cohesive and engaging piece.

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze a selected script to identify key themes, characters, and visual elements.

2. Develop storyboards and thumbnails to plan the layout of a two-page graphic novel spread.

3. Apply design principles such as composition, color theory, and visual hierarchy to create a cohesive and visually engaging spread.

4. Utilize digital tools and techniques to execute a polished final product.

5. Reflect on the process and assess the effectiveness of the graphic storytelling.

Essential Questions:

• How can visual storytelling convey complex narratives and emotions?

• In what ways can layout and composition influence the reader’s experience of a graphic novel?

• What role does color play in setting the tone and mood of a story?

• How do digital tools enhance the creation of graphic novels?

Big Ideas:

1. Graphic novels are a powerful medium for storytelling, combining visual art and written language to engage the audience.

2. Thoughtful composition and layout guide the reader’s eye and create a dynamic narrative flow.

3. The integration of digital tools allows for precision, flexibility, and creativity in graphic design.

Vocabulary:

• Graphic Novel: A story presented in a comic-strip format and published as a book.

• Panel: Individual frames or boxes that contain a single part of the story.

• Gutter: The space between panels.

• Composition: The arrangement of visual elements in a work of art.

• Visual Hierarchy: The arrangement of elements to imply importance.

• Script Analysis: The process of breaking down a script to understand its visual and narrative needs.

• Thumbnail Sketch: A small, rough draft used to plan layout and composition.

• Inking: The process of adding finalized lines to a drawing.

• Lettering: The art of drawing letters for dialogue and sound effects in a comic or graphic novel.

Lesson Procedure:

1. Script Selection:

   • Choose a script from the provided options or bring your own pre-approved script.

   • Read and analyze the script to identify key moments, themes, characters, and settings that you want to depict in your spread.

   • Write a short reflection explaining why you chose this script and which portion of it you plan to illustrate.

2. Storyboarding and Planning:

   • Create thumbnail sketches to experiment with different layouts for your two-page spread.

   • Plan the composition of each panel, paying attention to visual hierarchy, balance, and storytelling flow.

   • Develop a detailed storyboard, including rough sketches of characters, backgrounds, and placement of text/dialogue.

3. Character and Setting Design:

   • Design your main characters, creating a model sheet that includes multiple poses, expressions, and costume details.

   • Sketch key settings, ensuring they enhance the tone and narrative of the story.

4. Digital Production:

   • Transfer your final sketches to a digital format using the software of your choice (e.g., Procreate, Photoshop, or Illustrator).

   • Use inking techniques to finalize line work and add details to your illustrations.

   • Apply color theory to create a palette that complements the story and enhances the mood.

   • Incorporate text/dialogue using effective lettering and placement of speech bubbles.

5. Critique and Revision:

   • Participate in a peer critique session to receive feedback on your work.

   • Revise your spread based on constructive feedback and your personal reflections.

6. Presentation and Reflection:

   • Present your completed two-page spread to the class.

   • Submit an artist statement explaining your creative choices, how you approached the script, and how your work demonstrates principles of graphic storytelling.

Assessment & Feedback:

1. Planning and Development (20 points):

   • Clear and detailed thumbnail sketches, storyboards, and character designs.

   • Demonstration of thoughtful analysis of the script.

2. Technical Execution (30 points):

   • Clean and polished digital illustrations.

   • Effective use of inking, color, and lettering techniques.

3. Creative Application (30 points):

   • Engaging storytelling through visual and textual elements.

   • Strong composition and use of design principles.

4. Presentation and Reflection (20 points):

   • Quality of final presentation to the class.

   • Depth and insight of the artist statement.

Script Selection - April 21

Page Layout - April 25 

WIP - May 1

Final - May 9

Examples