4.9 Discussion Board 4: The Funnies, Seriously

( Due: Sun, 19 Dec | Status: Not Completed )

1. Though fewer people are serious comics readers than serious games, almost everyone reads comics, at least occasionally. If you don’t read graphic novels, manga, or monthly print comics, you probably still occasionally read newspaper comics, editorial cartoons, or the occasional webcomic gag that someone emails you.

2. Consider the role that comics (funny or serious) have had in your life. Think of once specific comic book story, page, strip, cartoon, caricature or other image that had an effect on you. It can be a profound effect or something simple but memorable (it made you laugh, or you thought it was stupid). If, after consideration, you really can’t think of anything, contact me for an alternative assignment (no later than Tuesday).

3. Write a description of the image, to the best of your memory. If you can find the image, you can use it as a reference. Practice Visual Writing: imagine that someone is going to have to re-create the image using only your description. Check and see how long your description is: if it’s less than 200 words, stop and think about how you can make it more precise and detailed. Try not to go over 400 words.

4. Write your reaction when you first saw the image, including when and where you encountered it (to the best of your memory). Follow this up with a brief analysis of what about the image (be as detailed and specific as possible) affected you that way. Your reaction and analysis should be 200-400 words in length.

5. Post your description and reaction/analyis to the Discussion Board by Wednesday night (put together, it needs to be an absolute minimum of 400 words).

6. Read your peer’s posts. By Sunday night, respond to each one briefly. Responses may include:

a. A question about a part of the description that you find unclear.

b. A comment on a part of the description that you find particularly vivid, explaining how it affects or inspires you.

c. A comment on their analysis, offering a suggestion as to what about their image affected them (when they first saw it).

d. If you’ve seen their image, how you reacted to it.