Time Travelers: Exploring History Through Graphic Novels
In this ongoing history class, students will explore diverse historical events and personal narratives through graphic novels, developing critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of global history.
Paul Kopulos, MFA
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(152)
Star Educator
What's included
35 live meetings
26 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students should read book before class to participate in the class discussion.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
Welcome, young historians, to an exciting expedition through the annals of time using the captivating medium of graphic novels! I invite you to embark on a thrilling adventure that will transport you across centuries and continents, unraveling the mysteries of the past through vivid illustrations and compelling narratives. Journey alongside renowned graphic novelists as they bring history to life in ways that traditional textbooks cannot. From the harrowing accounts of survival during the Holocaust in "Anne Frank's Diary: The Graphic Adaptation" to the poignant reflections on family heritage in "The Little White Duck," you will witness history unfold before your eyes, engaging your imagination and sparking your curiosity. Through interactive discussions, you will explore the everyday moments that shape historical events, discovering the power of ordinary stories in shaping our understanding of the past. Dive into the complexities of memory, family dynamics, and cultural heritage as you navigate through the pages of graphic novels that blur the lines between art and history. Enhance your critical thinking skills as you analyze and interpret historical themes, learning to ask insightful questions and draw connections between past and present. With the guidance of experienced educators, you will unravel the layers of history, uncovering hidden truths and gaining a deeper appreciation for the diverse perspectives that shape our world. Join us on this immersive journey through time, where each panel holds a piece of history waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of graphic storytelling, where art and narrative converge to create a gateway to the past unlike any other. Are you ready to embark on a time-traveling adventure through the captivating realm of graphic novels? Enroll in "Time Travelers" and unlock the secrets of history in a way that will ignite your imagination, broaden your horizons, and inspire a lifelong love for learning. Get ready to explore, discover, and journey through the corridors of time like never before! The books are not in any order (except when I highlight certain historical months).
Learning Goals
Historical Understanding: Develop a deeper understanding of historical events, themes, and perspectives by exploring them through the engaging medium of graphic novels.Critical Thinking: Enhance critical thinking skills by analyzing and interpreting historical narratives presented in graphic novels and drawing connections between past events and contemporary issues.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum35 Lessons
over 35 WeeksLesson 1:
Week of September 2: Colonial Comics: New England 1620-1750
This collection of 20 stories focuses on the colonial period from 1620 through 1750 in New England. It includes stories about Puritans and free thinkers, Pequots and Jewish settlers, female business owners and dedicated school teachers, whales and livestock, slavery and frontiers, and many other aspects of colonial life. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Week of September 9: Colonial Comics: New England 1750-1775
A massacre in Boston. A tea party. A shot heard around the world. But who was the first casualty of the massacre? How did the tea get to Boston Harbor? What was the Battle of Concord like for a Minute Man? Unconventional characters come to life, including gravedigging medical students, counterfeiters, female playwrights, instigators of civil disobedience, newspaper editors, college students, rum traders, freemen, and slaves. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Week of September 16: Blades of Freedom: A Tale of Haiti, and Napoleon
Why did Napoleon sell the Louisiana Territory to the U.S.? It traces back to Haiti, which he planned as a trade base. While Napoleon rose in France, enslaved people in Haiti, led by François Mackandal, Dutty Boukman, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, and Toussaint L’Ouverture, launched the largest uprising in history in 1791—the Haitian Revolution. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Week of September 23: History Comics: The Roanoke Colony
Over a hundred years before the Pilgrims, the first English settlers arrived on Roanoke Island but mysteriously disappeared. To uncover what happened, we'll explore their journey to Roanoke and the reactions of the indigenous people. This mystery involves brutal battles, pirate ships, ruthless queens, scheming businessmen, and many skeletons. 45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
In this history class, we will be exploring a range of topics that may touch on sensitive issues such as violence, racism, guns, and more. As with all my classes, I am committed to fostering a safe and respectful learning environment that is appropriate for the age and maturity level of the students.
While we will not shy away from exploring challenging topics and historical events, all discussions will be conducted in an age-appropriate and sensitive manner. It is my priority to create a space where students feel comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions while also respecting the diverse perspectives of their classmates.
Supply List
Students will need to have a physical or digital copy of the books to participate in the class discussions. Most of these books should be attainable through your local library or an app called Libby. Check to see if your library is available on this app.
Please plan ahead when joining this club. We do not read the books in class. If you have trouble finding any of these books, please contact me, and I can see if I can find a different way for you to get them.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined April, 2020
4.9
152reviews
Star Educator
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in English from Simmons University
I genuinely believe George Santayana's quote, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." And so, I love learning history. But not just regular history. The part of history that we may find weird and interesting or unusual. I have been teaching history for over four years. I have taken many history courses at Duquesne University, UMASS, CCV in Vermont, and Simmons University. With extensive expertise in various historical topics, I offer a comprehensive understanding of pivotal moments and marginalized groups throughout history. My knowledge spans the courageous roles of Civil War drummer boys, including their daily lives, uniforms, and significant contributions on the battlefield. I have delved into the impactful stories of Civil War dogs and the often-overlooked contributions of women during this tumultuous period. Additionally, I possess a deep understanding of the Holocaust, focusing on both the harrowing experiences of its victims and the resilience of the children who lived through it. My studies extend to the rich and complex history of LGBTQIA+ communities, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the significant figures who have shaped their journey. Through these diverse historical lenses, I aim to provide a nuanced and inclusive perspective on the past, bringing to light the stories of those who have often been overlooked or forgotten.Reviews
Live Group Course
$18
weekly or $630 for 35 classes1x per week, 35 weeks
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
4-9 learners per class
