Get Literature Circles Packet - Gcisd-k12

The checker in the literature circle can help you determine which students are on task. In fact, all group members should complete a worksheet that includes a self-evaluation. For formal assessment, you may want to give tests or quizzes. Written responses will show you how the students are comprehending the text.

Spend the first day of literature circles establishing expectations with students. Set up a chart paper with a list of Dos and Don'ts and ask students to share their best ideas--it's as simple as that. Display the list throughout your literature circle study and refer to it or add to it as often as needed.

Create Meaningful Roles Literature circles are a great way to facilitate discussions because each student has a separate role that they are in charge of completing independently and then presenting to the group. This gives each student a level of accountability that helps to build community in the group.

Students will generally be interested and excited by lit circle activities if they have some choice and options for what they are reading. Get students excited about what they're reading by setting up a “book tasting” or provide quick previews of what each title is about.

General Book Club Questions What was your favorite part of the book? What was your least favorite? Did you race to the end, or was it more of a slow burn? Which scene has stuck with you the most? What did you think of the writing? ... Did you reread any passages? ... Would you want to read another book by this author?

In literature circles, small groups of students gather together to discuss a piece of literature in depth. The discussion is guided by students' response to what they have read. You may hear talk about events and characters in the book, the author's craft, or personal experiences related to the story.

What do you think the author wants you to learn from reading this story? How does the character remind you of yourself, another character or someone you know? What is the main conflict in the story? Can you relate to the main character's conflicts or problems?