I like the idea of literacy circles because of what they are composed of. They are composed of four or five students of mixed abilities. This means that all literacy circles are equally matched and none are less composed than the other, so all students have equal opportunity to learn, participate, and understand as much as they possibly can.
On page 305, I like the ways a teacher involves all the students from the very beginning. First she highlights some aspects of the books to get their attention. Second she invites students who have read some of the books to comment on those books. Third she has an election and the students vote on their favorite books. Fourth she makes a final list and the students vote once again. Fifth the students are grouped by their choice of books and at times the circle groups may have to be adjusted.
Part of the reading is the learning of new vocabulary words that some members of the group know and others do not. Because some students in the group know the newer words they can help their peers come to know them and their meaning as well. This helps the group become independent form teacher intervention. The confidence of reading aloud and listening skill develop during this time where as at any other time the students may shut-down. Writing journals help develop the students writing abilities as well as their critical thinking.
The discussion exercises are a great way for the speech area to develop and for their speaking confidence to grow. So you know that the Literature Circles and Special Needs Learners section on page 312 is one of my favorite sections. Still, even 5 - 7 year olds can participate in literary circles. So I believe no child has to be left out of a literary circle.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment