My class is writing children's books: should I allow help from outside illustrators?

Question

My 10th grade honors English students have been researching different world cultures and must present their information in children's book form, in a way that children will understand. 20% of the grade is style, but that includes appealing to the young audience with storyline AND wording as well as the illustrations.

Many are concerned because they are not artists. I have told them they may recombine images from online, magazines, etc. so the images are their own, but some have asked if they could have others draw pictures for them. I'm considering it, as long as the students also provide a rough sketch of what they want their friends to draw to show the ideas were theirs (plus they have to give credit to the illustrator).

The point is really the research and the writing, and the pictures have more to do with the "publishing" and presentation aspect. So is it fair for them to farm out the illustrating?

See the assignment here: http://wetheteachers.com/files/7221158035571.d

Answer 1

being that you are allowing the use of images from online mags etc i would probably make them tough it out, particularly if you are allowing them to do the work in class.if the bullk of the work has to be done on their own time, i would be more likely to allow help.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

I do work in the style of Jan Pienowski, and use acrylics and inks. I certainly come under aspiring illustrator and I'd be happy to help. Other ways include - contacting publishing houses to see if they can put you in touch with illustrators on their books. A lot of freelancers sign up and leave examples of work with e.g. Penguin. There are also exhibitions like Art in Action that have displays by illustrators. If you look it up there should be a list of artists/ illustrators. There is also Artists and Illustrators magazine - available from most stationers and newsagents.

Answer 4

I think that the illustration is a major part of the story in a children's book. It cements the idea of the story in their minds so that the words make sense. If the student is not an artist they should not be penalized for allowing another person draw their ideas to illustrate the story as long as credit is given to the artist.

Answer 5

Allow them under these conditions:
1. They must give credit for any illustrations not their own.
2. They must have at least one illustration that is their own.
3. The grade points for the illustrations will only be based on their illustration, not illustrations done by others.

This way they get to present a better finished product and you have a way of grading their own work.

Answer 6

Another idea if you have a culturally diverse school--allow them to use digital camera photos of their friends. It is surprising how much fun they can have dressing up, acting out scenes, and being photographed. Just another option to be considered.

Answer 7

i think its a great idea. You also might have them write a two paragraph essay about the person who drew the illustrations for extra credit

Good luck!

Answer 8

hmmm, i would be inclined to say yes, as long as you trust them not to palm it off as their own work, many great authors have illustrators to complete the task. as long as your marking criteria does not disadvantage students who may choose to do it themselves regardless of their artistic ability then there is no problem

Answer 9

I say 100% the student's, or not at all. This isn't a professional publication.

Answer 10

i think it would be best for them do go it alone