The history of the world is an immensely large topic that crosses vast amounts of time and territory. By contrast, a human being is much smaller and exists for a much shorter time, therefore fitting into the historical narrative on a much smaller scale. How do we make sure to include the human experience into the greater world history narrative? Well, here at OER Project, many of our graphic biographies present narratives from the perspective of underrepresented/marginalized individuals – many you may have never heard of. This month, our focus is on graphic biographies and the tools available to help students understand the impact of historical events on people just like themselves.
Graphic biographies are one-page histories of individuals that are woven in and out of the global themes of their era. They often highlight the larger scale developments students are studying, and sometimes provide perspectives from opposing sides. Incorporating the Three Close Reads for Graphic Biographies, will help students improve their skills at using these illustrated stories of individuals to support, extend and challenge the narratives they encounter throughout the course. There are guiding questions to help students fit the human experiences into the broader historical narrative.
This year, the OER Project introduced the 3CR for Graphic Biographies tool that invites students to become co-creators as they observe, understand and connect.
There’s also a new Introductory Activity in which OER Project superhero Trevor Getz walks students through the step-by-step process of reading a graphic biography. Incorporating these new tools with Three Close Reads for Graphic Biographies, will help students improve their skills at using these illustrated stories of individuals they encounter throughout the course.
Check out the complete list of the WHP Graphic Biographies and BHP Graphic Biographies, as well as this Graphic Histories page to access lessons and other materials you can use today!
If you are interested in learning more about using the graphic biographies tools in your classroom, be sure to join the OER Project Skills Clinic: Graphic Biographies and Three Close Reads on February 13 from 3:00 – 4:30 PM PDT, then participate in the OER Project Presents: Beyond the Panels with Walter Greason, Trevor Getz, Stephanie Manuel, Tessa Hulls and Argha Manna on February 29 from 4:00 – 5:30 PM PDT. All attendees will be eligible to win graphic history books created by our very own presenters!
Our questions for you this month are:
- Which OER Project graphic biography is your favorite?
- How do you incorporate it into your instruction?
- What questions do you have about using the new graphic biography tools with your students?
Share your questions and comments below. Every person who participates in this month’s IN FOCUS conversation will be put in a drawing for a pack of our brand-new graphic biographies posters! Five poster packs will be given away this month. We look forward to learning from you!
