Read the Reader’s Resource and Reader’s Toolbox. Pay attention to the section on Chronological Order. Scan the comic strip. Study the characters. Pick out Thompson (with the round mustache) and Thompson (with the pointy mustache). Locate Tintin. Look at the comic strip using only the pictures. Do not read any of the words yet. Based on the pictures, make predictions about the setting, characters, conflict, climax, and resolution. Use sticky notes to mark where you think each of these elements is introduced.
1. Begin reading the comic strip. After the first line of frames, think about your predictions. When incorrect, move the sticky notes to the correct place. For example, your sticky note for setting should be on the first frame of the comic strip. It shows a train, and the setting of the comic strip is on a train. If you placed it elsewhere, move it and stick it in the first frame. Pay attention to the details in the comic strip. For instance, note how a falling person is shown.
2. Finish reading the comic strip. Then go back and read it again. Look carefully to notice even more details in the artwork.
If you are having a difficult time using sticky notes, try reading the comic strip aloud with a partner. When you finish reading, answer the Recall and Interpretation questions on page 853.
Using your sticky notes, write out the five key plot elements in order of occurrence. Explain each part. For example, the setting is on a train.