Unit One: What is Sequential Art?

Introduction
Although many of you may be unfamiliar with the term "sequential art," you are probably more familiar with the some of the names that it is often synonymous with - comic book, graphic, novel, and many others. However, can you define exactly what a comic book is? In this unit, we will discuss what sequential art is, what it is made up of, and how it got that way. Additionally, before you begin the lessons for this unit, please read the article "Superman Finds New Fans Among Reading Instructors" from the New York Times. It gives a nice overview of the idea of sequential art in the classroom by recounting how it has been used in one classroom. You don't need to take notes on the article. It is more meant to be just the thing to inspire you to want to learn more about the potential of sequential art in the classroom! Remember to come back after the jump.
Target Objectives
Upon completion of this unit, you should be able to do the following:
1. Define, recall, and apply key vocabulary items
2. Identify vocabulary items when analyzing a page of sequential art
3. Develop a rudimentary understanding of the history and cultural significance of sequential art
Unit One, Part 1 - Defining Sequential Art
Unit One, Part 2 - A Brief History of Sequential Art and Its Relationship with Culture
Unit One, Part 3 - Key Sequential Art Vocabulary
Back to the course homepage - Integrating Sequential Art into an English Language Arts Curriculum