Hi Laurie,
First of all, I think what you've done so far is
great. It sounds like you've taken a lot of time and
effort to help your kids understand what a good book
discussion looks and sounds like. (I LOVE the idea of
big idea sketcher...totally "borrowing" that from you
btw!)
>From your post, it is hard to tell if you are
frustrated with the quality of the discussions or the
management issues. To me, it sounds more like
management (noise level, unprepared members). If it
is the management, then you might try rubrics for
self-assessment, group assessment and teacher
assessment. Kids need to hold themselves accountable
and know that your expectations are clear as well.
This may take care of noise level, turn taking, and
things like that. Also, since you didn't mention
this, make sure you debrief after groups and make a
list of things that went well in certain groups and
things to work on tomorrow. The groups doing it well
should know they are doing well and that you're
noticing.
In terms of kids being prepared, I have a couple of
questions: Why do you think some students aren't
prepared? Is the text too hard to get through? Is
their group trying to read too much at once? Are
there consequences for not being prepared for group?
I totally understand your frustrations, but I think
it's great that you keep rolling. So many people give
up lit circles due to these situations.
Lisa
2/3 IL
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