Film School 4 Teens

Turn your ideas into a published comic book! In Graphic Novel 101, students will learn to master the art of visual storytelling while building a comic of their very own. This advanced, high school–level course (open to 8th graders as well) blends professional instruction, hands-on practice, and creative freedom in a way that makes the process both structured and exciting.

Through engaging video lessons, students will:

• Master the 3-act story structure to create tension, conflict, and powerful endings
• Develop themes that give their comics real meaning
• Design characters with personality using references and color limits
• Plan layouts and pacing for maximum impact
• Bring ideas to life with rough sketches before moving to digital creation in Procreate (iPad app, $12.99 one-time fee)

Alongside the lessons, students will work through our comprehensive workbook, packed with practice pages, examples, and guided exercises. They’ll also take part in student workshops, which give them the chance to get feedback, share ideas, and push their creativity even further.

This course is taught in collaboration with Professor Christian Washington, Associate Professor of Animation at Huntington University. Christian has self-published multiple graphic novels, mentored dozens of young artists, and brings years of professional storytelling and artistic expertise to every lesson. While the course was filmed and produced by Christian, we at Film School 4 Teens are proud to partner with him to offer his knowledge and passion in the same approachable, engaging style that families know us for.

At the end of the course, students will have the opportunity to publish their finished comic:

• Included: Publication in a student anthology (at no extra cost)
• Optional: Self-publishing their own comic book (additional cost)

Please note: This is an advanced, independently driven course best suited for high school students. Students should have some prior art experience (basic drawing skills and comfort with sketching).

If your teen is ready to take their creativity to the next level, Graphic Novel 101 will give them the tools, confidence, and experience to make it happen—panel by panel, page by page, until their story is complete.

This Graphic Novel course is offered in collaboration with Professor Christian Washington. While not produced or filmed by Film School 4 Teens/C&C Productions/Filmmaker’s Edge, we are excited to partner with Christian to bring his expertise and passion for visual storytelling to our students.  We believe this collaboration provides a unique opportunity for students ready to take their creativity to the next level under the guidance of a skilled artist and educator.