Using Comic Strips In Math

 

Not long ago, I wrote about presenting word problems as comics to make it easier for students to understand and do.  Since then, I've been thinking about other ways one could use comics in the math classroom.  One reason I've been thinking about using comics is that they can be created by students or used in class as part of the instructional segment.

If students create comics, they have to learn to be concise when they are explaining anything.  This means they have to think about what they will explain, how to explain it, select vocabulary, and create the comic. It provides another way to "show their thinking" and their understanding of the process and concept.

Research shows that when the brain is able to process words and pictures together, it helps with better recall and transfer of learning.  What better way of putting words and pictures together than creating comic strips.   In addition, using comic strips require students use creativity when they design the comic strips, critical thinking as they determine what works or doesn't work, communication to share information with others, and collaboration if they work with others to make the comic strips.  

One can make comic strips either by hand or digitally depending on what resources you have available.  As far as topic go, students can explain how to do order of operations, multiplying or dividing fractions, multiplying binomials, or any other mathematical topic. They can also find real world examples they can share in comic form with others, share vocabulary, and so much more.

On the hand, comic strips can be integrated into the classroom as a teaching tool.  As far as things go, using comic strips as part of the instructional component can help students develop critical thinking skills because the comics require them to analyze and interpret multiple elements on one page from the layout, to the language, to visual and textual elements.

Furthermore, comic strips are unique in that they combine pictures and words to communicate a story or idea concisely.  In the process of presenting the material, comic strips involve a certain degree of creativity  to convey the material accurately and students see it as they read the material.  

There is a decent selection of material available. There is "The Cartoon Guide To Algebra" or other cartoon guides, "The Solution Squad" by Jim McClain, "The Manga Guide To Calculus" other math manga guides, Beast Academy books for ages 8 to 13 and a few others.  A simple check on the internet or at your favorite online store can show you others. 

The nice thing about having students create the comic strips is that they learn the math better because they are having to explain it to someone else.  It develop their understanding and vocabulary while doing something fun and it lets those who love to draw a chance to shine.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.