According to Harvey Daniels, author of Literature Circles: Voice and Choice in the Student-Centered Classroom, a classroom literature circle is a small group of students who read and discuss a particular piece of literature. When they finish the reading and discussions, group members then choose a way to showcase the literary work for the rest of the class.
Teachers who have used literature circles in their classrooms say the groups offer students a chance to apply and improve their literacy skills. The strategy also generates in all students -- particularly at-risk students -- an excitement about reading and the motivation to understand and learn from their reading.
The Education World article below provides a detailed description of how you can establish and manage literature circles in your classroom.
Literature Circles Build Excitement for Books
Literature circles are one of the hottest trends in language arts teaching. In this article, two experts in the field offer insights and advice about using this instructional strategy in your classroom. Included: Valuable resources for teachers who want to learn more about using literature circles in the classroom.
Learn More About Literature Circles
You also might visit one of the sites below for more information about and resources for literature circles.
Literacy Lessons
Lots of literature circle resources from Laura Candler.
Literature Circles
Terrific planning and note-taking handouts from abcteach.
Theory to Practice: Literature Circles
An introduction to literature circles from Eduscapes. Includes links to discussion starters and activity suggestions.
Literature Circles
Includes a printable worksheet for each discussion group role.
Reading in Literature Circles
Provides a complete 50-minute lesson plan for high school students and adults. Includes a handout of a brief reading selection and printable discussion-role worksheets.
Literature Circles
