The Literacy View How to Motivate Reluctant Readers: Mystery Solved!
Nov 25, 2025
Gabrielle Mace, a literacy consultant and former head of library services, shares her innovative approach to ignite a passion for reading among reluctant readers. She introduces the concept of 'Student Detectives,' a gamified reading intervention that transforms traditional learning into a thrilling mystery experience. Gabrielle discusses the importance of cognitive engagement and how varied evidence can involve families. She also touches on supporting diverse reading abilities and the impact on students' reading habits, particularly in getting boys more engaged.
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Self-Determination Explains The Engagement
- Gabrielle links the success of gamified literacy to self-determination theory: autonomy, competence, relatedness.
- The format meets students' need for choice, skill-building challenges, and social connection, driving intrinsic motivation.
From Dinner Game To Seven-Week School Case
- Gabrielle turned a 4.5-hour murder-mystery dinner game into a seven-week school investigation that engaged 1,400 students.
- She drip-fed clues on a library crime-scene board and online, sparking sustained curiosity and participation.
Delay Feeds Student Curiosity
- Cognitive impatience (the itch to know answers) makes delayed clue release especially powerful for modern students.
- Deliberate slow drip-feeds increase investment because students cannot get instant answers on social media.