Graphic Novels is a new English elective offered to all students. The S-Track course is taught by Mr. Jago.

Baron Perspective: What is the name of this class? Is this class a pilot?
Mr. Jago: The name of the class is “The Graphic Novel.” The class was first started at JFK and Colonia last year, and this year we expanded to give the class to the students at Woodbridge.

BP: Why do you think it’s important for students to learn?
MJ: I think it’s important because there is a stigma around graphic novels that they aren’t a real source of literature. Some of the best stories are from graphic novels, and I want the students to learn those stories.

BP: How will this course prepare students for 21st century careers and skills?
MJ: Society is becoming very creatively driven, and in this class I ask the students to really be creative in what they do. We create our own characters, we collaborate with each other, and at the end the students actually create their own graphic novels. It’s great seeing the students actually proud of the work they do.

BP: Why are you interested in teaching this?
MJ: I am a huge graphic novel fan and I grew up loving Batman, which is actually one of the units we cover. This class was something I saw myself really enjoying, and so far it hasn’t let me down.

BP: Can you please provide me with a class description and a brief overview of the class?
MJ: The class starts with the book ‘Understanding Comics’ by Scott McCloud to get background information on how graphic novels and comics are created. Once that is completed, we branch off into different graphic novels including Ms. Marvel, Persepolis, The Dark Knight Returns, Maus (which has to do with the holocaust), and Watchmen. The class ends with students creating their own graphic novels.

BP: What are your expectations of this course?
MJ: I want the students to enjoy reading these great stories, and I want them to look forward to coming to class every day. The world of graphic novels is so underutilized, so I am happy I get to share this experience with others.

BP: How is it different from other courses in your department?
MJ: The stories we read are not traditional in any sense. The stories are written as comic books, with panels, art illustrations, dialogue and thought bubbles. While we do go over literary devices like plot and theme, the way the students read the stories is very different.

BP: Is there anything you’d like to add?
MJ: Growing up a huge superhero and Batman fan, I never thought there would be a day that I would be able to teach these characters to students willing to learn. It’s an amazing feeling, and I hope this class really grows into something more wonderful than it already is. If you are interested in graphic novels and being creative, make sure to check with your guidance counselor if The Graphic Novel is the right course for you.