We need to be aware that discussion and literature circles
cannot just magically happen on their own. Teachers and Literacy Coaches need
to be fully aware of how to appropriately facilitate within a classroom/group. Based
on the readings for Dr. Manderino, there are a few things that are essential to
having a successful classroom full of meaningful discussion or literature
circle. Teachers should not ask “intimidating questions” where the students are
just trying to figure out what answer the teacher is looking for instead of
being honest. Students and teachers should both be asking questions. Students
still need to support the discussion with text evidence. Setting the tone for a
classroom of discussion is important. I found an easy to read getting started guide
from the Schrever Institute at Penn State. It would be useful for anyone trying
to get started.
http://www.schreyerinstitute.psu.edu/pdf/ClassDiscussion.pdf
(once you click
on this link, click in the bar right after the web address ends then tap enter
to refresh and it will show up)
There are two kinds of discussion within a classroom, guided
or reflective. Guided is meant to be centered on information. Reflective is for
encouraging critical and creative thinking. A couple more factors for creating
a positive discussion is 1) the classroom arrangement where they can all see
each other and b close enough to hear each other for smaller groups, 2) to
always encourage listening by practicing in smaller groups and modeling, and 3)
to establish goals for the discussion by giving explicit directions and to stay
on task. The best way to establish a respectful literature circle to balance
out the gender bias and masculinity
issues that may get in the way of a successful discussion is to be
careful about the books that are chosen, work together to create rules for
participation, the teacher needs to have some role but more as a coach not as a
teacher, and to continue with mini-lessons on group processes.
I might present to my class something with a little humor….
I expect discussion groups not to be like this…
Or even this...
But more like this…
Images used from…
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