TMC8 Bates

Reversing the “Decline by Nine”: Engaging Reluctant Readers with Graphic Novels in the Elementary SLLC


by Ian Bates

The purpose of this paper is to examine the driving question “How can an intentionally collected and curated selection of graphic novels and hybrid books increase reading engagement and enjoyment in reluctant readers in the K-5 SLLC? To examine this question this paper will first define the terms used in the question. This paper will then explore the literature and data supporting the contention. Finally, this paper will explore data gathered from the author’s own LLC circulation statistics, as well as survey question results from students in the K-5 demographic.  

Ian Bates is in his 20th year as an educator with the Toronto District School Board. He is a teacher-librarian and S.T.E.A.M teacher at Westway Junior School in Etobicoke, Ontario. He believes an SLLC should be a place of passion, wonder and inquiry where a diverse, intentional, student-centred collection will inspire and engage every reader. When not in the library, STEAM lab or coaching, Ian can be found walking his doggo, gardening, golfing, at the gym, or with his own growing (too fast) children. 

1 comment:

  1. MZMollyTLJanuary 14, 2025 at 11:08 PM

    Ian,

    It's so good to see and hear from you again! You know of my fondness for graphic novels so, of course, I gravitated to your paper. I don't know if I've asked these questions of you before, so apologies if I'm repeating myself.

    1) Why do you think that so few elementary school libraries stock manga? I have my own theories, but did you notice anything in the research?
    2) Do you use the term hybrid with your students to describe books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid? What other descriptors are used? Or does it even matter what we call these kinds of books?
    3) Do you use any particular spine labels or identifying features when shelving your manga, graphic novel or hybrid books?
    4) How do you keep the shelves in these sections from becoming a complete disaster? I know that sometimes they don't even make it on the shelf but I've found that students will hide favourite titles in different areas of the library so they can have private, personal access!
    Diana

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