2nd Edition
Literature Circles Voice and Choice in Book Clubs & Reading Groups
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;an 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.
Biography
A former city and suburban teacher, Harvey Daniels now works at the Center for City Schools at National-Louis University in Chicago. Along with a team of veteran teacher-consultants, “Smokey” helps teachers, schools, and districts implement progressive literacy structures such as literature circles, reading workshop, and integrated curriculum. Smokey is the author or co-author of nine other books on language, literacy, and school reform, including Methods that Matter: Six Structures for Best Practice Classrooms (Stenhouse 1998) and Best Practice: New Standards for Teaching and Learning in America’s Schools (1998). He has also created a videotape, Looking into Literature Circles (Stenhouse 2001). Daniels and his colleagues host the website www.literaturecircles.com where teachers can find additional information and support.
