Should we have Lit Circles / Novel groups at schools?

Question

It's for a high school small thesis presentation. I need pros for keeping it AND CONS for getting rid of lit circles. Doesn't apply for colledge.

Answer 1

Literary circles are very effective, however you must plan the circles so that there a flexible group ins( student of different abilities). Each individual must be responsible for certain questions and they must be graded individually on daily assignments and as a group overall. Do not forget to have a variety of books that you approve .

Answer 2

Yes!  I use them in 3rd grade and have seen huge gains in both reading ability and desire to read.  Students select much harder books than they normally would and complain of not having enough homework!  

I have seen Literacy Circles used ineffectively--students were told to read and discuss.  Students were off topic and groups were ineffective.

I provide a folder of things to work on throughout the book.  Character studies, plot discussions, and various other activities that address state standards.  I meet with each group for a minute or two every time they meet (2-3 times a week) and at least once a week for the majority of the Literacy Circle discussion.  We discuss the books and the progress made on the assignments in thier folders.  Finally students complete a project (either group or individual) using the multiple intelligences.  I provide a planning sheet that they use to guide them.  They love the presentations and learn so much in the planning process.

Parents have said how much they love the Literacy Circles.  They have noticed the increased desire to read, increased reading ability, as well as experience less problems when doing homework with their children.

I have observed the same things as well as students who have aquired the love of reading!  What a life skill!  I love Literacy Circles.