What should teachers and librarians do to help reluctant readers? Handing him or her a graphic novel just might be the answer. I will be the first to admit that I have not always been a believer in these books. As a matter of fact, I tried to dissuade my students from reading them. I wanted them to read more challenging books that could help to improve their reading levels. After all, my students are sixth through eighth grade struggling readers. I did not want them to waste their time on a comic book!
My opinion changed drastically about one year ago. I had the opportunity to listen to a wonderful presenter speak about how graphic novels can actually promote literacy. Though it was a great presentation, I was still not convinced. I decided I would have an open mind and no longer discourage my students from reading them. I started asking them questions about their graphic novels and was amazed at the detailed responses they shared. Since then, I have watched these students move from graphic novels to more advanced fiction books. It was at this point that I became a true believer.
Kids get hooked on these books and cannot put them down. They can range from superhero tales to classics, like The Red Badge of Courage and Macbeth. There are even graphic novels relating to the curriculum that can help to teach skills or concepts in a more visual way. Lyga (2006) says that "graphic novels give the brain more of a workout per sentence than any other type of media, including conventional books" (p. 58). Even graphic novels that contain no text require the reader to understand a sequence of events, interpret character's nonverbal gestures, figure out the plot, and make inferences (Lyga, 2006). They help students to visualize the story and create context.
I am now encouraging my students to read graphic novels. Both girls and boys are flocking to the shelves for these books. I couldn't be happier because I know that this is a big step in the right direction for these struggling readers. Graphic novels could play a huge part in turning students into life-long readers.
What are your opinions on graphic novels? Are they bridging the gap to literacy or a waste of time?
Lyga, A.W. (2006, March). Graphic novels for really young readers. School Library Journal, 52(3), 56-61.
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1 comment:
Because of your post, I will have to give a second look to graphic novels. This type of material is extremely popular in our system, and I never have given graphic novels any real consideration. My eyes are opening up to their possiblities--great insight.
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