This research study was conducted in a pre-test, post-test format, relying on qualitative
and quantitative data. The first portion of the study addressed the students’ reading habits by
administering a pre-test survey. The survey consisted of 10 questions that resembled a Likert
Scale. Mertler (2008) states, “The ultimate goal of survey research is to learn more about the
current status of a reasonably large population either by surveying a subset (known as a sample)
from the population or by surveying the entire population” (p. 83). The researcher chose to
conduct a survey with the intention of determining the thoughts and habits of the general
population of fifth grade students with regard to academics, reading and graphic novels by
examining a subset of that population.
The second phase of the study involved students taking part in an informational seminar
on graphic novels. The researcher described the components of graphic novels to the students
and explained possible uses for these texts. The researcher then presented three book talks on
pre-selected graphic novels of differing topics and genres. This allowed students to view the
differences between graphic novels, while also pointing out the various components graphic
novels entail. Students had the opportunity to review various graphic novels in small groups.
Students each wrote a review on a graphic novel of their choice, following the opportunity to
handle the text. Students were provided time to read through the graphic novel while completing
their graphic novel inventory. In the inventory, students indicated the title, author, and
description of text features, level of appeal and whether they would be willing to read the graphic
novel.