(Grades 7-9)
This graphics novel is a nice break away from the traditional black and white pages and my favorite material to teach. When I first taught this book, I found that my students read through the entire contents (in one sitting, no less!) and it took away from the excitement of “foreshadowing” and “predicting”. Also, they were unable to pick up important details to answer questions such as: “How does the author develop the setting to show _____?”
Now, I post several pages at a time on-screen or make copies and pass it out. I want to make sure that my students analyze the text, graphics, and character development to gain perspective on the author’s message (through his tone, the setting, etc.).
I do thank my husband for suggesting this book. He’s a huge comic book fan.
Lessons I teach: character development, setting, author’s message, inferences/foreshadowing, figurative devices Background context: history of Asian immigrants in America (I highly recommend this website: https://asianpacificheritage.gov/for-teachers/ to look for ideas. My favorite article to start with AAPI history is this one: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/tellingallamericansstories/upload/AAPI_Find_Your_Place_508_Compliant.pdf ) End of Unit Project: Socratic Seminar and an analysis essay on the connections between American Born Chinese and AAPI history
As an AAPI, Fil-Am (Filipino American), after teaching this unit, I introduce my students to my specific culture and use Monstress by Lesley Tenorio for another unit on literacy.
AAPI Teacher 