Boys and Reading: Action Research in Boys' Schools, 2005-06

The topic of inquiry was chosen for the inaugural project because of the widespread concern that many boys are disengaged from reading, and less competent in mastering the skills of literacy, often with significant consequences for their achievement.  Boys' schools are uniquely positioned to focus on curriculum, approaches and pedagogy that promote their engagement with literate tasks and outcomes.

The Use of Graphic Organisers in Reading Instruction for Boys

The first team focused on primary level boys, and set as its precise research question: "Does the use of pre-designed graphic organisers in reading instruction increase boys' engagement and level of comprehension?"  The team reported at the 13^th annual conference in South Africa that the use of graphic organisers was a powerful tool in helping boys navigate and probe texts, with significant impact on their understanding of these texts.

• Boys and Reading Team Report
• Boys and Reading Workshop Powerpoint at the 13^th Annual Conference, South Africa

Graphic Novels to Engage Boys in Reading

The second team focused on secondary level boys, and set as its research question: "how might graphic novels engage boys in school reading?"  The team reported at the 13^th annual IBSC conference in South Africa that graphic novels can serve to engage boys in reading, and lead them to greater interest in and understanding of texts.

• Graphic Novels Team Report
• Graphic Novels Workshop Powerpoint at the 13^th Annual IBSC Conference, South Africa

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