Literature Circles      

The defining features of our classroom literature circles include the following:

1) Students choose their own reading material.

2) Small temporary groups are formed, based on book choice.

3) Different groups read different books.

4) Groups meet on a regular, predictable schedule to discuss their reading.

5) Kids use written or drawn notes to guide both their reading and discussion.

6) Discussion topics come from the students.

7) Group meetings aim to be open, natural conversation about books, so personal connections, digressions and open-ended questions are welcome.

8) The teacher serves as a facilitator, not a group member or instructor.

9) Evaluation is by teacher observation and student self-evaluation.

10) A spirit of playfulness and fun pervades the room.

11) When books are finished, readers share with their classmates, and then new groups form around new reading choices.

Daniels, Harvey. Literature Circles: Voice and Choice in Book 

     Clubs and Reading Groups. 2nd ed. Portland, ME: Stenhouse 

     Publishers., 2002