Comics: Exploring Visual Storytelling

This course invites young students to the dynamic world of comics, where they will learn the art of visual storytelling. Over four weeks, participants will explore how to combine images and text to tell compelling stories. The class will introduce foundational concepts such as character development, plot structure, panel transitions, and the effective use of dialogue and captions. Students will engage in hands-on activities, creating their own comic strips and pages that bring their ideas and narratives to life. Each session will build on the last, guiding students through the process of crafting a short comic from initial concept to finished product. This course is ideal for budding artists and writers interested in the unique storytelling possibilities of the comic book format.

Course Outcomes for Elementary Students - 

• Understanding of Comic Book Language: Students will learn the visual language of comics, including how to use panels, gutters, and page layouts to guide the reader’s experience.
• Character Development: Participants will gain skills in creating and developing characters, understanding how to express personality, emotion, and growth through visual and textual elements.
• Narrative Construction: Students will learn how to structure a story, including the development of a plot, setting, and pacing within the comic format.
• Integration of Text and Images: The course will teach students how to effectively combine text and imagery to tell a story, focusing on the balance and interplay between dialogue, action, and description.
• Artistic Expression and Technique: Participants will develop their drawing and design skills, learning various artistic techniques that enhance the visual storytelling in their comics.
• Project Completion: Each student will complete a personal comic project, starting from the initial idea to the final inking and lettering, demonstrating their understanding and application of the concepts taught throughout the course.

Requirements - 
A curious and interested mind, no experience is necessary for this course.  

Materials - 
All regular course materials are included, though students may receive lists of supplies if they would like to practice at home after the course ends.