Social studies can be dry for students who only have a textbook for reference. Graphic novels are engaging, so they would speak to reluctant readers, students who are still learning the English language, and other students who just want to know more about a fascinating time in our country's history!
My students attend a middle school in the Midwest.
We are serving more and more students who have reading comprehension IEPs. Those students struggle with the traditional social studies textbooks, which can be written for student at a much higher reading level. We also have increasing numbers of students who move in during the year or have attended many schools during their lifetime. This causes gaps in their knowledge base, so they would also benefit from having high-interest books to aid in their learning.
When we take trips to the school library, it always seems that the graphic novels are a high demand. They are so popular that the waiting lists are several students long. About fifty percent of my class is currently reading a graphic novel, so I know that they would be motivated to read books related to our social studies topics.
My Project
These graphic novels tie directly with the topics in the fifth grade social studies curriculum. They will engage students in topics ranging from the Vikings to the U.S. Constitution. We can use these books for a variety of purposes, including book reports, nonfiction text features, research, free reading, and enrichment.
Graphic novels are extremely high-interest, and I know that all of my students will find them fascinating.
Students can use the pictures to build their comprehension, whether they are struggling readers, English-language learners, or advanced readers.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Roethler and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
