The Badge Archive

Comparing Comics

Activity Description: Scouts compare older and modern comics to explore how humor, characters, and storytelling have changed over time.

*Inspired by an activity choice in the GSUSA 1980s program for Across Generations

Info Needed: Explore how comics are created and understood by looking closely at characters, emotions, and storytelling techniques used in comic strips.

Items Needed:

  • Pens or pencils (for leader notes only)
  • Printed copies of one older comic strip or cartoon (dated from the 1990s or early 2000s)
  • Printed copies of one current comic strip or cartoon (published within the last year)
  • (Optional) Cartoon & Comic Exploration Worksheet for leader reference

Before the Meeting:

  • Select at least one older comic and one current comic that are easy to read and visually engaging.
  • Print enough copies for Scouts to view in pairs or small groups.
  • Note the publication date of each comic on the printed copy.
  • (Optional) Use Comics Kingdom, GoComics Archive, or Comic Book Plus for older examples.
  • (Optional) Use USA Today or a local newspaper for current examples.

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 10–15 min):

  1. Distribute printed comics and let Scouts read in pairs or small groups. (5 min)
    • Scouts look at at least one older comic and one current comic.
    • They should just enjoy reading and noticing differences.
  2. Discuss what’s funny and what feels outdated. (2–5 min)
    • Scouts share what made them laugh and what felt confusing or less funny.
    • Ask a few open-ended questions to guide discussion (e.g., “What’s funny here?” or “Would this joke still work today?”). Questions can also be about art style, characters, or types of humor.
  3. Reflect on what stayed the same. (2–5 min)
    • Scouts notice if both comics use silly jokes, friendship, or visual storytelling.
    • Leader highlights how humor evolves but some themes stay timeless.

Past Comic Resources

Past Comic Strips
From the 1990s or Early 2000s

  • Calvin and Hobbes – A boy and his tiger explore imagination and mischief
  • Peanuts – Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and friends with gentle humor and heart
  • Garfield – A lazy cat with a love for lasagna and sarcasm
  • Foxtrot – A funny family with geeky kids and relatable school humor
  • Luann – A middle schooler navigating friendships and growing up
  • Pickles – A retired couple with silly grandparent jokes

See Comics Kingdom, or GoComics Archive for online access to classic strips like Calvin and Hobbes, Peanuts, and more. Or Visit the Library of Congress Comic section.

Funny Past Books or Cartoons

  • The Magic School Bus (books and cartoons) – Science meets silly adventures
  • Amelia Bedelia – A literal-minded housekeeper who misunderstands everything
  • Captain Underpants – Goofy superhero antics and comic-style storytelling
  • The Berenstain Bears – Family humor with gentle lessons

Past Magazines or Old Newspapers

Tia Kennard