Thrift Store Jackpot

The other day I randomly decided to stop by a thrift store before picking up my husband from work.  Little did I know that I would hit the jackpot!!! It turned out a retired teacher had dropped off a bunch of her old books....perfect for grade 4 and 5!  And with multiple copies!!! I was thrilled!

I spent an hour in the store carefully picking out all of the books I wanted for my new collection.  I came home with five different books, each having multiple copies.  I want to use them for literature circles!

Literature circles are a fabulous tool when it comes to differentiating reading instruction (reading at multiple skill levels)  There are five different groups to choose from, each with its own book.  The students get to choose which book they would like to read so that they are interested in the material, and it is reading level they are comfortable with.  The group then organizes a time schedule for when each chapter should be read.  This way every group can finish their book at the same time.

For each literature circle class time, each student in the group plays a role.  These roles help the students talk about their book and make greater realizations.  Roles can be: Discussion Director, Worthy Writer, Word Wizard, Connector Captain, Summarizer, Illustrator, Investigator, and Presenter.   (these can be shortened and rearranged easily)  For each role there is a worksheet that needs to be filled out on the chapter they just read together.  Groups will meet with the teacher called "LC Conferences" at least once a week to check up on comprehension, assignments, and enjoyment :)

Well....I'm super excited to try it out!!!  I think I'll be stopping in at more thrift stores to see what else I can find!