Young Adult Literature and Higher-order Thinking Skills: A Confluence of Young Minds

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between young adult literature (YAL) and higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) as reflected by a group of young adolescents. Focus group interviews were carried out using an interview protocol which consists of questions on students’ experiences with YAL. Following purposive sampling procedures, ten avid readers were selected among adolescent students in a secondary school. Two sessions of interview with the students were conducted to discuss the students’ reading of YAL and its relationship with HOTS. Using a qualitative analysis method – the content analysis, data gathered through focus-group interview, document analysis and classroom observation were analysed and the themes that emerged were used to answer the research questions. The findings revealed the need to engage students more actively in YAL as it could be instrumental in promoting HOTS in the classroom.