Changing the Classroom Climate with Literature Circles.

Abstract

Kenneth oped himself. Four other students in his group are answering his questions, giving their opinions or predictions, and finding proof. Suzanne is silently reading Island of the Blue Dolphins, Libby is reading The Light in the Forest, and Evan is reading Julie of the Wolves. In 20 minutes, Kenneth's small discussion group is finished, and soon Suzanne is sharing some of her favorite passages in Blue Dolphins with four of her classmates while Evan and Libby continue reading their own books. The class (all students' names are pseudonyms) is using Literature Circles to strengthen literacy skills and change the climate of the classroom. Literature circles incorporate several features that can change the classroom climate to be more cooperative, responsible, and pleasurable while encouraging growth in reading. These features include student choice, groups of mixed ability, student management of small interactive groups, and substantial time to read during the school day. Literature circles offer to students a limited selection of books