Book club anyone?

This week I've introduced a new approach to our language arts block. Traditional practices were, that students sit around the teacher and choral read in order to develop fluency. That model, at one time effective, is now viewed as passé.

What does reading, in the real world, look like? We (adults) read alone. Hardly ever to we read aloud except to our children, or to share a short interest piece with someone. Should we discuss our reading, we do so conversationally.

We go to a book store and pick up a book. Either because it was recommended, we've read the author before, or the jacket looked of interest. After reading it we may discuss it with a friend, or a book club perhaps.

Creating these authentic reading experiences is important. Practicing how to engage with each other, pose insightful questions and making relevant selections, is what helps students to develop autonomy in their reading. The idea of literature circles fosters that.

As the kids read, they assign their task / homework (how many pages they will read). They are each assigned a role and are expected to come to the discussion prepared and ready to participate.

I am slowly introducing these roles to the students. We are modeling mature and insightful book discussions. After we get comfortable with each one, I hope to allow them to work in groups to discuss and check in with one another about their reading.

I'm really excited for what's in store!

One note of classroom business: if you are willing and able to help out with our Monster Mash fundraiser please see me / read the next newsletter to find out who you can contact for more information.