ABSTRACT
Literature circles are really fun! Lit circles are very neat. They are very, very awesome. Lit circles are very, very complicated, though —Stacey, fifth grade. These kids are amazing! They really work at pulling everyone into the discussion, they’re kind and thoughtful. Getting a basic version going is usually relatively simple, because the structure is self-teaching. What kids can do with just a little preparation can be truly amazing. In the early days of literature circles, most teachers used role sheets as the chief tool for getting kids started with book clubs. This chapter focuses on four models of training, nested in different grade levels. The first one is for classes with a solid background in collaborative learning and response-centered literature study. The second two approaches use open-ended reading logs to support the reading and energize group interaction. The last model uses the “traditional” role sheet approach as a temporary step on the way to more open response.
