Literature Circles

Most of the time, we spend a week on a particular reading skill or two, concluding our week with a literature circle where students meet in their lit circles (which are comprised of students reading the same book as they are) and discuss how they applied the skill to their workshop book.  Students have time to prepare for their time (usually marking a passage or two in their book) and then have time to discuss the week's skill or strategy together.  After their time, they reflect on their participation and contributions.  This week, before they began their lit circle discussions, students indicated a goal - maybe something they've struggled to do well in past lit circles.  You'll see this indicated on their theme lit circle paper.  In addition to being able to show they understand how to use the reading skills and strategies, it's equally important for them to be collaborative teammates which is why lit circles are so great - offering opportunities for both to students.