American Born Chinese Webercise
This activity will help students enhance their critical thinking within the novel! These questions will provide a platform for students to develop their own thoughts upon the novel based off what they already know. Providing extra resources to help their thinking will allow each student to then segway into the stereotype/archetype project which is found below. Students will be assessed on their understanding of the elements of plot and themes by discussing their thoughts through these questions. Students will analyze themes based off literary devices that have been taught in the class (e.g. rhetoric).
What are some concepts that are presented within this graphic novel? Using the link below, answer the questions and explain your findings!
https://novelinks.org/uploads/Novels/AmericanBornChinese/Concept%20Analysis.pdf
- 1.) What are patterns that recur during the novel?
- 2.) What genre is the novel? In your own words, discuss your interpretation on why you think the author chose this style of writing.
- 3.) What are some cultural background information do you need?
- 4.) Analyze the text and recall some allusions and references from the text?
What are key themes in the novel and examples of them? Please cite the page!
5.) Who is in search for identity? Define the term identity and explain the importance.
6.) What are some typical stereotypes shown? Differentiate different cultures stereotypes.
7.) Is finding acceptance a key theme? Why or why not? Explain your answer.
Find important background information upon the Chinese immigrating to the United States.
https://www-jstor-org.lib-proxy.fullerton.edu/stable/pdf/20025379.pdf?refreqid=excelsior%3A8daab94293f066a029c5cd41747a71c0
8.) What is the point of total assimilation?
9.) Define the term, Model Minority, and describe the purpose of the word in the context of the Asian culture.
Stereotype/Archetype Project
The character of Chin-Kee is an obvious (and offensive) stereotype of those of Chinese descent. His presence in the novel is meant to both expose the nature and repugnance of racism and racial stereotypes, to ultimately create a test for the character of Jin/Danny. Consider modern popular culture and identify another character that serves a similar purpose in another work. This can be a film, book, graphic novel, music video, etc. Write an analysis of this character in which you identify the text, author, character, and plot. Explore the appearance, mannerisms, and actions of the character and why they are considered offensive. Consider why this character exists and what purpose he/she serves in the work. Remember that creativity is very important and will be grading this based off of your efforts.
Here is an example of a type of project you can create!
https://prezi.com/zkvjeh035yfx/racial-stereotypes-in-gene-luen-yangs-american-born-chinese/
The character of Chin-Kee is an obvious (and offensive) stereotype of those of Chinese descent. His presence in the novel is meant to both expose the nature and repugnance of racism and racial stereotypes, to ultimately create a test for the character of Jin/Danny. Consider modern popular culture and identify another character that serves a similar purpose in another work. This can be a film, book, graphic novel, music video, etc. Write an analysis of this character in which you identify the text, author, character, and plot. Explore the appearance, mannerisms, and actions of the character and why they are considered offensive. Consider why this character exists and what purpose he/she serves in the work. Remember that creativity is very important and will be grading this based off of your efforts.
Here is an example of a type of project you can create!
https://prezi.com/zkvjeh035yfx/racial-stereotypes-in-gene-luen-yangs-american-born-chinese/