Literature+Circles

Literature Circles are __student led__ reading groups. You are responsible for generating your own discussion questions, vocabulary and reading assignments.

=Before Reading=
 * 1) Choose one of the available texts to read.
 * 2) I will arrange the class in literature circle groups.
 * 3) Each group member is assigned a role.

Literature Circle Roles
__Discussion Director__ • creates questions to increase comprehension • asks who, what, why, when, where, how, and what if Download the worksheet. __Vocabulary Enricher__ • clarifies word meanings and pronunciations • uses research resources Download the worksheet. __Literary Luminary__ • guides oral reading for a purpose • examines figurative language, parts of speech, and vivid descriptions Download the worksheet. __Checker__ • checks for completion of assignments • evaluates participation • helps monitor discussion for equal participation Download the worksheet.

=During Reading=

The First Literature Circle Meeting

 * 1) Decide how much of the text to read and which role each of you will fill during the next meeting.
 * 2) Make sure you have a copy of the correct role sheet.
 * 3) Read your text and prepare for literature circle meetings.

The Following Literature Circle Meetings (repeat until the text is finished)

 * 1) Use notes to guide the group’s reading and discussion, according to the role you are filling for the session.
 * 2) Be open and make sure that everyone has a chance to participate.
 * 3) Remember that personal stories that connect to the reading and open-ended questions about the text are welcome.
 * 4) Decide how much of the text to read and rotate the roles that each of you will fill during the next meeting.
 * 5) Make sure you understand your role. It will change throughout the week.
 * 6) Read your text and prepare for the next literature circle meeting.

=After Reading=
 * 1) Complete and print the self assessment.
 * 2) When books are finished, readers share with their classmates, and then new groups form around new reading choices.

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