Literature Circles!

Literature circles are student led groups in which all students have a specific role to play. Students are assigned chapters of a novel to read independently and work on their assigned role throughout the week. On Fridays, students gather in their literature circles to discuss the novel. Students determine their specific circle expectations (using hand signals to add on or ask for clarification, etc), grade their own participation and work completion, think of ways to extend the conversation beyond the scope of the assigned roles (discussing theme development, tone, what they are noticing, etc.), and reflect on what went well and areas/strategies for growth. The students have worked all year on their discussion and communication skills in both Math and Lang & Lit....what a great opportunity to highlight their growth! 

Currently, we are reading The Jacket by Andrew Clements. The students are loving the novel! Each "part" ends on a cliffhanger which leaves them wanting to read MORE! Ask your child about their assigned literature circle roles thus far and what they enjoy about the story!