I teach 8th-grade students. They are polite, respectful, energetic and dedicated to doing their best every day. Eighth grade is the transition and bridge year to high school, and my students are aware of the importance of this critical point in their education. Many of them are stepping up with better grades and a better attitude than in their two previous years of middle school due to maturity and a realization that college is near.
My students are passionate 21st-century learners at a California Distinguished School.
Some of my students come from affluent households and some come from the other extreme. The students have all had access to high achieving schools and exemplary teachers in our school district coupled with rigorous educational standards. Despite the varied financial backgrounds from which they come, these students have forged deep friendships and relationships with one another. Within the classroom walls, these students will stop at nothing to support one another in becoming successful, just like a family! The work ethic, stamina, and perseverance that my students possess are inspirational and a positive foundation that I want to ensure they carry on with them to high school and beyond.
My Project
The young adults in my classroom need to read books in book clubs so that they can discuss the big ideas with one another in order to gain a wider and deeper understanding of the book. Putting the same books in the hands of a small group of readers is vital for increasing reading levels among readers and stretching their ability to talk about their thinking that comes from the reading.
The power of small book clubs of 4-5 students each in my classroom has proven to be the most beneficial way to teach reading skills, critical thinking skills, and accountable discussion skills.
Research also shows that the amount of reading required in college is between 800 and 1000 pages, so establishing a reading habit with peers is one important benefit from the book clubs that makes that particular college expectation not so hard to reach.
In conclusion, my students need multiple copies of recently published young adult literature to read in book club settings. The book clubs serve as a foundation for learning reading skills, practicing discussion techniques and applying the literacy common core standards for mastery.
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