High School Grade  Project 3 weeks

Author in Action: Write Your Own Adventure!

Jason R
Updated
Effective Communication
Content Expertise
Collaboration
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Self Directed Learning
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Purpose

Students will delve into the literary styles of their chosen author, gaining a deep understanding of how these elements captivate diverse audiences. Through creating an original children's book or graphic novel, students will synthesize these techniques, developing both their creative and analytical skills. This project provides an authentic platform for students to articulate their insights, collaborate with peers, and contribute meaningfully to a shared learning community.

Learning goals

Students will creatively apply their knowledge of literary techniques by crafting an original children's book or short graphic novel inspired by a studied author's style. They will engage in critical analysis of the author's work, exploring elements such as word choice, tone, and character development, and incorporate these into their projects. Throughout the process, students will collaborate, receiving and offering peer feedback to enhance their work. Regular self-reflection and revision opportunities will encourage self-directed learning and personal growth. Finally, students will effectively communicate their findings and creative outcomes through presentations to peers and the broader school community.

Competencies
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.

Products

Students will collaboratively design and produce an original children's book or short graphic novel that mirrors the literary style of their chosen author. Throughout the project, they will create storyboards, draft narratives, and illustrate pages, culminating in a polished, publishable work. The final product will be presented to their class and peer groups, followed by an exhibition to a broader audience, including representatives from the local library and school community.

Launch

Start the project with an engaging "Author Fair." Each student is tasked with creating an interactive display that captures the essence of the author they've been studying. This fair will include readings from the author's work, student-created visual aids, and multimedia elements such as video interviews. Invite classmates and the school librarian to explore these displays, which will foster a sense of shared literary exploration.

Exhibition

Students will host a literary festival where they present their children's books or graphic novels. This event will be held in the school library, offering an opportunity for all attendees to engage with the completed projects. Through interactive reading sessions, students will share their work with younger grades, school peers, and teachers, inviting open discussion and feedback. Display areas will be set up to showcase each creation alongside author studies, highlighting the connection between the original novels and the student-created books. This festival will serve as a culmination of their efforts, providing a platform for creative expression and community engagement.