Defining Literature Circles:
1. Students choose their own reading materials.
2. Small temporary groups are formed, based upon 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 conversations about books, so personal connections, digressions, and open-ended questions are welcome.
8. In newly-forming groups, students may play a rotating assortment of task roles.
9. The teacher serves as a facilitator, not a group member or instructor.
10. Evaluation is by teacher observation and student self-evaluation.
12. When books are finished, readers share with their classmates, and then new groups form around new reading choices.
1. Students choose their own reading materials.
2. Small temporary groups are formed, based upon 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 conversations about books, so personal connections, digressions, and open-ended questions are welcome.
8. In newly-forming groups, students may play a rotating assortment of task roles.
9. The teacher serves as a facilitator, not a group member or instructor.
10. Evaluation is by teacher observation and student self-evaluation.
12. When books are finished, readers share with their classmates, and then new groups form around new reading choices.