The Badge Archive

Graphic Novel Basics

Activity Description: Scouts explore how a real comic artist turns ideas into a finished book.

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

Items Needed:

  • Graphic Novel Basics handout
  • Writing utensil
  • (Optional) Printed comic pages or thumbnails for reference

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 15 min):

  1. Pass out the handout and read through the steps together. (5 min)
    • Scouts follow the process from idea to finished book.
    • Leader highlights key stages like thumbnails, pencils, and color.
  2. Talk about which steps seem the most fun or challenging. (5 min)
    • Scouts can circle or star the step they’re most excited to try.
    • (Optional) Scouts can share their choices with the group.
  3. Connect the process to what scouts will do in their own comic project. (5 min)
    • Scouts understand that their comic will follow similar steps.
    • (Optional) Leader can preview which steps will happen in future meetings.

This Activity is a Part of the Following Meeting Plan(s)

Comic Artist
River Valley Plan

–

–

–

Tia Kennard