I-Search paper

I did my I-Search paper on literature circles. It wasn't my original topic, but I'm actually really pleased with all of the information I gathered from research. I was vaguely familiar with the idea of lit circles, but after reading about all of the positives that are associated with lit circles I am definitly planning on using them as much as possible in my classroom next year.

The topic of my paper was "What makes a successful literature circle?" There is definitely a difference between a successful lit circle and a crappy lit circle. One of my articles documented two teachers who were struggling with their lit circles and told of the journey they took and the tweaking they did in order to make them effective in the classroom. One important thing to remember with lit circles is that if they are not structured properly they can come crumbling down at your feet so quickly. With junior high and high school kids they are often times too busy socializing, putting each other down, and not properly participating in the cirlces. When this happens it's important that the teacher take lead of the groups and get them back on the right track.

Research shows that when literature circles are used properly they allow freedom, support, engaged learning, and an active environment for the kids. My research also shows that students prefer lit circles to the more traditional alternatives.

If anybody wants any info on lit circles I'd be more than happy to share what I have with you!