LITERATURE CIRCLES AND NON-FICTION
PURPOSE Exchange of information about the literature you are reading: perceptions interpretations questions Leads to: discussion collaborative engagement personal responses and insights
KEY ELEMENTS Groups meet on a regular, predictable schedule to discuss their reading Discussion topics come from your group Group meetings should be open, natural conversations about the novel, so personal connections and open-ended questions are welcome Students play a rotating assortment of Lit Circle roles Evaluation is by instructor observation and student / peer evaluations
ROLES Director Connector Researcher Word Wizard
DISCUSSION DIRECTOR List of questions Direct the discussion Focus on the “big” ideas
CONNECTOR Make connections Text to text Text to self Text to world
RESEARCHER Background information Relevant to the novel From TODAY’s reading
WORD WIZARD Vocabulary Words Smiley Face Tricks
PROCESS & PROCEDURES 1. Form groups 2. Determine reading calendar 3. Assign roles and note on calendar 4. Daily: Each student completes role documentation
FRIDAY REFLECTION NOTE: You will only receive ONE copy of the handout. You should use it as a template to guide you in preparing your weekly reflection. FRIDAY is REPORTING DAY! Bring to class EVERY FRIDAY Personal reflection should respond to at least 4 of the following questions: What is working well for your group? What is not working; how are you adapting? Are you sticking to your reading schedule? What problems have come up? Evaluate yourself / evaluate your group members. Reflection on what you think of the book so far. Include a drawing or clip art that relates to the week’s reading. Attach ALL of your role assignments for the week. You will turn this in as a packet. FRIDAY Warm Up: Share your Reflection with your group
IF YOU ARE ABSENT… Read assigned pages on your own Complete your role assignment for that day Your assignment must be shared with your circle the next day Be prepared to complete the weekly reflection and packet