Learning Objective: To explore an aspect of the art of comics by using secondary, scholarly sources as well as the texts covered in this course to support a central idea or contention. First, identify a topic relating to the art of comics (see page 2) you would like to explore. Research the topic using scholarly databases to find information on your chosen topic. Based on your research findings, develop an overall argument (idea, thesis) that you will address in your paper. Then, craft a thesis statement that encompasses your main argument. Be sure your overall idea is clear to the reader. Be sure you can support this idea with your research, Understanding Comics and/or Reading Comics, and the books you choose. Next, draft your paper with an introduction (with thesis statement), body/support paragraphs, and a conclusion. Your paper should support your overall idea and connect directly to your thesis statement. Cite and incorporate at least two (2) outside sources in your paper and incorporate and cite Scott McClouds Understanding Comics or Wolks Reading Comics. Based on the topic you choose, you may also be required to cite one or more of the other texts from the course or an outside book. Remember the conventions of academic writing and writing about literature: Use third person point of view (eliminate first and second person POV). Do not use contractions. Avoid questions. Use present tense when referring to the literature. Quote and cite passages properly. *Students who do not include any scholarly, outside sources or questionable sources, will automatically lose 50 points. Final papers should be 5-7 pages in length, include MLA in-text citations, and include a comprehensive MLA Works Cited Page in proper MLA format. *Students who do not use MLA documentation or ATTEMPT to cite sources, will automatically lose 20 points. Topic: Mood and Tone: Discuss how the artist/author uses two or three of the following in order to create a mood or tone in the text: light, color, shading, panel size, panel progression, speech bubble size/shape, graphic weight (may also use other ideas). Discuss the significance of these elements as used in the text and why they are used in this way. You may use a book from class (March, The Death Ray, Maus, or Fun Home) or any other graphic novel or comic book (you may even use a DC or Marvel comic if you choose). Your paper should directly quote and cite a primary text (one from class or your own choice as described above) cite and incorporate Understanding Comics and/or Reading Comics, and directly cite at least two (2) outside, scholarly sources.
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