In this post we’re highlighting one of our favorite classroom resources—Doodle-Style Comic Notes (™). Not only are they one of our favorites, but all of our Comic Notes (™) are Instructomania trademarked exclusives. You won’t find anything quite like them anywhere else! Using Comic Notes for teaching key historical eras makes learning memorable and fun for students. They are a student and teacher favorite for a reason!
The illustrated, comic-style graphic organizers help students engage with key historical content in a way that is creative and student-centered. Thankfully, there are comic-style notes for several different historical topics. Check out six favorites below, or visit the TPT store to see all of the Comic Notes (™) that we offer.
Why We Love Doodle Style Comic Notes
There are so many reasons we love Comic Notes (™). First of all, they’ve been incredibly fun to create. As an artist and history buff, they combine the best of both worlds for me. All of our Comic Notes (™) are also highly visual and engaging. They take traditional note-taking to the next level, making content more accessible especially for your visual learners. We also love the flexibility that they provide. There are so many ways to easily incorporate them into a lesson or unit.
Using Comic Notes for Teaching
Each of the Doodle Comic Notes (™) resources comes with a Google Slides presentation that pairs with a comic-style notes graphic organizer and worksheet. The slides provide all of the content that supports all the accompanying activities. We’ve also ensured that every resource aligns with key content standards. The graphic organizers, questions, and answer keys are included in both print and digital formats. Comic Notes(™) can be used in many ways. For example, as a whole-class, as independent work, partner activities, review, and more. These are also great to keep handy for a sub plan, or a grab and go activity if you need to accommodate a last minute change.
Featured Doodle Comic Resources
All of our doodle comic resources are available on our TPT store. To find other comic notes for teaching beyond the six listed here, be sure to check out the store to see all that we offer.
#1 Age of Exploration Doodle Comic Notes
The first Comic Notes (™) activity we’re featuring covers the Age of Exploration. This resource explores the causes and consequences of the era, highlighting major explorers such as Columbus, Magellan, da Gama, Cabot, Hernán Cortés, Francisco Pizarro, and Henry the Navigator. It also covers motivations for exploration and the wide-ranging impact of European expansion. All of this is presented in a highly engaging format. Check out the Age of Exploration Doodle Comic Notes here!
#2 Reformation Doodle Comic Notes
This Comic Notes (™) set is all about the Protestant Reformation. It breaks down the key players and core ideas in a clear, engaging format. Students will learn about Martin Luther, indulgences, the formation of the Lutheran and Anglican churches, Puritans and more. These notes help make complex religious reforms feel approachable for middle school learners. The comic format keeps students interested and focused. No dry lectures around here! Click here to grab your copy.
#3 Scientific Revolution Doodle Comic Notes
This set of Comic Notes (™) introduces students to major thinkers of the Scientific Revolution, including Galileo, Newton, and Bacon. It’s a great way to explore a time where scientific ideas began to challenge long-held beliefs. Topics include the Scientific Method, Galileo Galilei, Isaac Newton, Francis Bacon, René Descartes, and Evangelista Torricelli. I find the Scientific Revolution really fun to teach because so many connections can be made to the present day. Have a look at the Scientific Revolution Doodle Comic Notes here.
#4 Mayan History Doodle Comic Notes
Teach students about the ancient Mayan civilization with this set of Comic Notes. (™) Similar to the others, this resource is highly visual and gives a great overview of the Mayans’ achievements, cities, social structure, and beliefs. The resource includes slides and notes on key topics like hieroglyphics, agriculture, recreation, and many more cultural aspects. Click here to grab your copy!
#5 The Aztecs Doodle Comic Notes
This comic notes (™) set explores the Aztec civilization in detail, covering everything from military power to religious rituals. Students will learn about Aztec social structure, economy, and spiritual practices. It’s also an excellent starting point for conversations about conquest and cultural exchange in the Americas. Click here to grab this amazing resource!
#6 The Incan History Doodle Comic Notes
This set of Comic Notes (™) highlights the accomplishments and complexity of the Incan civilization. Students will explore topics such as their road system, terrace farming, and of course, Machu Picchu! These notes really help students visualize how the Inca people thrived despite their challenging terrain. Click here to have a closer look at the Incan History Doodle Comic Notes (™).
Ready to Try Comic Notes?
If your students enjoy learning visually, or maybe you’re just looking to try something new, we know our Comic Notes (™) will make the perfect addition to your curriculum. They work great as core lesson components, review tools, or enrichment activities. Regardless of what you’re teaching, Comic Notes (™) will have a big impact on your students.
Love the concept but teaching a different subject? Check out our full collection of Doodle Comic Notes(™) on Teachers Pay Teachers.
If you enjoy Instructomania lessons, check out our history teacher membership. With this membership, you have access to all curriculum content through a single login. If you do not want to miss any of the upcoming lessons, join my email list to be notified of all the interactive lessons coming up! By joining the email list, you will receive freebies for blog exclusive subscribers!
