Independent Study of The Arrival

Scan the entire graphic novel quickly. You will notice that it is divided into six sections. You will also notice that, beyond the numbering of each section (I-VI), there are no printed words to explain the author's message. Therefore, you will need to focus solely on what you see, analyzing the visuals on each page carefully.


To help you monitor your observations while you study each section in this graphic novel, you will record and consider your observations in the following categories:

 

What?

 

In this category, you need to show that you have been attentive to the ideas and composition of this section of the text. You will choose examples that are particularly significant to the main idea(s) the author develops in this section.

Try to move beyond summarizing what you see. Ask yourself questions about why the text unfolds as it does. Consider the following:

  • In your opinion, what is the author's purpose for creating this section in the novel?

  • What is this section really about?

  • What visual elements support the main purpose for this section?

 

So What?

 

Connect personally to the main idea(s). How has this section of the novel affected you?  If you cannot relate using an experience from your life, do you have a friend or a family member who has had a comparable experience?  You can also try comparing this text to another text you have studied.

The purpose of making this connection is to have you consider another perspective. It is another way to interpret and to attempt to understand the ideas at the heart of the text and the influence those ideas can have on your life.

 

Now What?

 

Look beyond this section of the text and your own experience. Consider how the author's ideas are relevant on a universal level.

  • In what ways do the author's ideas reflect on the world today?

  • Are the issues important, not only to the author and to you personally, but to all people? If so, in what way are they important?