Embracing the Indefinable

Abstract

This chapter explores the indefinable nature of comics as an avenue for composition in secondary English classrooms. Embracing the indefinable presents an opportunity for students to express their knowledge, analysis, and interpretations without confines of alphabetic text. Students must not only consider what they want to convey, but what comic medium would most effectively suit their purpose. They must master rhetorical strategy. Comic composition is reflective of students' identities and allows for all students, regardless of fluency in English or any other possible hindrance in an English classroom, to express their learning and demonstrate and connect with course content. This chapter explores the practical use of comic-composition in the secondary English classroom, and specifically advocates for educators to expand their definitions of comics and embrace the indefinable. By removing the constraints of English from an English classroom, the authors see the potential for accessible, equitable, and culturally-responsive education for all students.