Over the past few weeks I have been busy with programs for ESL teens. With the enthusiasm and support of a teacher at the local high school, we developed a graphic novel study for her level 1 -3 English Language Learner students .

As an introduction to graphic novels, I visited the class one day for a “book sampling” exercise. We covered the basic components of a graphic novel: speech bubbles, thought bubbles, sound effects, etc. Then the students were given a chance to “sample” books for 5 minutes of silent reading and rate the book afterwards. Students were excited to receive their first Canadian library card and to take home some of the books that day.

On the first day of the study, the class was divided and books distributed to the students – some read Bone and others Goosebumps.

Over our 5 classes together, the students read their book, engaged in activities and completed a final project. Some in-class activities included:

• An scavenger hunt through their book
• Sequencing activities that required the students to put the cut-out pictures in order and verbalize the story
• Inserting dialogue into the pictures

The end projects required the students to prepare either a prequel or an alternate ending to their book.

Over Spring Break, students were invited to visit me at the library for a less academic program. Using various games, we worked on vocabulary, talking and listening skills. Some of the best games for building vocabulary were Pictionary and Apples to Apples (the junior edition). As I was working with fairly bright teens, they enjoyed games that involved lots of strategy: Saboteur, Pandemic and Settlers of Catan.

I hope to offer similar programs in other ELL classrooms in our community. Please pass along this blog post to any teachers you know who might be interested in having the Shawnessy Library visit their classroom.