Literature Circles-Empowering Students through Text and Talk

Small, peer-led discussions about texts; engaging, thought provoking critical readers – these are just some of the descriptions that are entailed in literature circles. When kids are engaged in well-structured book clubs, their comprehension and their attitude toward reading, both improve. Well-designed literature circles, organized by competent teachers can pave the way for lifelong readers and learners. In this course, you will learn how to construct literature circles (fictional and non-fictional) inside your classroom and enable students to create meaningful connections within various texts. Participants will complete a myriad of tasks:
• Complete an introspection of themselves and their teaching styles
• Complete research on literary circles
• Share relevant teaching stories that assist everyone in the teaching process
• Cultivate student interest by creating exciting reading opportunities
• Master different approaches to prepare students for higher thinking
• Execute lessons that enrich student learning
• Read a young adult novel and complete literature circle activities of your own
Overall, participants will be refreshed as they enhance their classrooms by learning more about themselves!

ON-LINE (3 credits/45 hours) in-service credit only