Literature Circles

What do we know about literature circles now that we didn't understand eight or ten years ago? What new resources and procedures can help teachers organize their classroom book clubs better? What are the most common pitfalls in implementing student-led discussion groups? And getting beyond the basics, what do mature or "advanced" literature circles look like.

In this thoroughly revised and expanded guide, you will find new strategies, structures, tools, and stories that show you how to launch and manage literature circles effectively. Advanced variations are explored and include alternatives to role sheets and flexible new guidelines for their use

The second edition includes

four different models for preparing students for literature circles using response logs, sticky notes, and newly designed role sheets
dozens of variations on the basic version of student-led bookclubs
new models and procedures for primary, intermediate, and high school grades
new materials for assessing and grading literature circles
an inventory of common management problems and solutions
new scheduling patterns for group meetings and reading time
ideas for using literature circles with nonfiction texts across the curriculum
research on literature circles, including correlation with increased achievement on standardized tests
explanation of how literature circles match with the national standards for literacy education

With detailed examples provided by twenty practicing teachers, Harvey Daniels offers practical and concrete suggestions for each aspect of book club management and proven solutions for problems that arise.