Rainbow reading: Reviewing queer young adult fiction for use in secondary English in Queensland

Overview

In Queensland, lists of texts prescribed for use in high school English are used in conjunction with other curriculum documents to shape the content of study in senior English subjects. Prescribed text lists contain varied representations of what counts as notable and important enough to be worthy of recommendation for use with young adult learners, and research suggests that LGBTIQ+ subjectivities are seldom represented in the current lists. Further research that involves teachers and students in appraising the benefits and challenges of books foregrounding queer characters and experiences is needed.

Research engagement

This research will involve reading young adult novels that feature LGBTIQ+ characters, making reading notes, and analysing representations.

Research activities

You will read 3-5 books and produce reading notes using a supplied note-making guide. You will meet twice with the research team to share notes and collaborate on analysis of representations and themes.

Outcomes

The aim is to include pre-service English teachers in evaluating the appropriateness of young adult literature for use with secondary students. The expected outcomes are a set of coded reading notes for use in future research, and a co-authored publication of short reviews for the ETAQ professional journal 'Words'Worth'.

Skills and experience

Any pre-service teacher in the secondary education degree is eligible. Students with English as a first or second teaching area are especially encouraged.

Start date

2 December, 2024

End date

7 February, 2025

Location

Location of your choice for reading and note-making; QUT Kelvin Grove campus (and zoom) for meetings.

Additional information

Books to be read will be available for loan if you do not already own them or wish to purchase them.

Keywords

• literature
• curriculum
• LGBTIQ+
• reading
• queer

Contact

Dr Kelli McGraw, kelli.mcgraw@qut.edu.au