Stimulating Talk in Lit Circles - Just Like Adult Book Clubs

My Students

My students love the Lit Circles we form in class. Their conversations go on and on while their love of reading grows. Yet, six copies of a single title is hard to come by in our book room. We need small sets of books for these kiddos to read together.

The sixth graders at my middle school are a diverse group.

In any given classroom there are kids reading at a high school level and kids reading at a first grade level, plus everything in between. Our school is larger than I'd like, with 936 kids walking the halls. Every one has his or her own special talents and own special needs. My challenge as an educator is designing curriculum that stimulates each student at her or his level and giving him or her the attention necessary for success. Nothing is more important to these kiddos than friends and social time. They are redefining themselves each day as they create their identities in school. I make every effort to give them opportunities to learn through social interaction. With enough positive experiences, I hope they will learn to create their own academically inspired social connections, create their own book clubs, or even businesses in the future.

My Project

I have requested six sets of Newbery Award winning books for my students to read in their book clubs. All of the books have been recommended by students and teachers. They come from a range of reading levels so students can find one that is right for them. Having more sets of books will allow students more choice, which is the hallmark of any good reading program. Students will rank their personal top three books of interest and then I will create reading groups, called "lit circles," around their preferences. Each group will plan a reading schedule over the course of 3 weeks. Each day they will meet with their lit circle to discuss their questions, predictions, connections and confusions about their book. That is when things really get fun. With the right preparation and the right book I have seen sixth graders discuss for up to FORTY minutes at a time. They look forward to their discussions. They are inspired to read on time. Some even form their own groups outside of class.

Lack of school funding has left our district pinching every penny just to keep teachers in classrooms.

You can imagine what little is left for material resources like books. The books purchased through this project will be read by hundreds of students over the course of the next few years. Having the opportunity to read in a social setting will help inspire their life long love of reading and give them a chance to connect with each other through learning. Help me stir this magic pot! Thank you!