The author and illustrator of Dog Man began creating comics in kindergarten.  Captain Underpants was born when they were in grade 4 and they started Dog Man comics in grade 5.  Over the period of 4 classes, students will be guided through the process of creating their own comic strip characters and writing and illustrating their first comic strip.  

Although I use the DogMan storylines and characters to draw references for each class, I encourage the children to expand their creativity and develop their own characters and storylines. 
Class 1 
Students will learn about the author of the Dog Man series and will engage in a conversation about how Dog Man came to be. 
Following a directive dawing, students will draw Dog Man and we will talk about some of his strengths and weaknesses. What makes Dog Man so funny?
We will then begin brainstorming so each student can design their own unique superhero. 
Students will work to develop a list of superheroes' strengths, superpowers, and weaknesses.
We will talk about accessories that might be helpful to a superhero. 

Class 2
Following my art, together we will draw one of the Dog Man villains.
We will talk about the superhero's sidekick.  Why does a superhero need a friend?  OR DO THEY? 
We will discuss villain characteristics.
Students will develop their sidekick and/or evil character. 
If they have time, students will create a cover for their comic book. 

Class 3
We will talk about how comic books have a story (with a beginning middle and end) and students will brainstorm their storylines. 
Students will learn how sound effects and character expressions can be used to tell the story. 
We will talk about a few different types of sound bubbles ( speak, think, yell). 
The students will begin to draw out the plot of the first story using the characters that they developed in previous classes.  

Class 4
Today is the day we put the story together. Students will share their ideas for a short story and begin to draw their first  comic.
Students are encouraged to draw and write in pencil and ink once they have everything in place. 
Students are encouraged to color their comics to add interest. 

Each stage of development involves sharing and discussion. 
Because of the age differences in this class, some students may develop more complex characters and storylines. I support each learner at their level encouraging their development. 

If your child enjoyed this class - I have a Level 2 class where they can continue to work on their comics while learning more about comic book terminology, and the setting of a comic, while we learn to draw backgrounds that they can use in their comic strips. 

Please note - during vacation periods this class may be scheduled 1X a week for 4 weeks OR 4 times in one week.  Please check the schedule carefully.