During my course on teaching methods, I collaborated with another classmate on a group project that demonstrated the relevance of using graphic novels to help build literacy skills.  My affinity for graphic novels led me to believe they could be a successful alternative modality within the classroom.  There are a variety of graphic novels that richly depict many, if not all of the themes associated with more “traditional” texts.  Another reason is my belief that graphic novels can be used for differentiated instruction. Graphic novels help students who learn in a variety of ways, and at different paces. Building Literacy Connections with Graphic Novels by James Bucky Carter helps to inform an area of teaching that I wanted to improve: using a variety of texts, including graphic novels, to promote analytical and critical literacies.  Below is the collaborative presentation and lesson plan for differentiated instructinon using graphic novels.

Building Literacy Connections with Graphic Novels - Rationale.doc

Building Literacy Connections with Graphic Novels - Lesson Plan.doc