this book. Literature circles are small, temporary discussion groups whose
members have chosen to read the same story, poem, article, or book. The
group members determine which portion of the text they will read either
during or outside the meeting. As they read, members prepare to fulfill
specific responsibilities in the upcoming discussion. Each comes to the
group with the notes needed to help perform that specific job.
The circles have regular meetings, with discussion roles rotating for
each session. When they finish a book, circle members plan a way to share
highlights of their reading with the wider community. Then they trade
members among groups, select more reading, and move into a new cycle.
Once readers are comfortable with successfully conducting their own
wide-ranging, self-sustaining discussions, formal discussion roles may be
dropped.
Based on Daniels (1994) and Routman (1991), we have identified
these key features of literature circles:
•Participants choose their own materials.
•Small, temporary groups are formed on the basis of book or chap-
ter choice.
•Different groups read different books (or chapters).
•Groups meet on a regular schedule to discuss their reading.
•Participants use written or drawn notes to guide both their reading
and their discussion.
•Participants generate discussion topics.
•Group meetings aim to foster open, natural conversations. Though
group members may play specific roles in a discussion, personal connec-
tions, digressions, and open-ended questions are welcome.
•In newly forming groups, participants play a rotating assortment of
task roles.
•The leader serves as a facilitator, not as a group member or an
instructor.
•Self-evaluation occurs.
•A spirit of playfulness and fun pervades the room.
•When members complete a book, they share with one another (and
with the community). Then new groups form around new reading choices.
Suggestions for Using This Book xxix