What is the format of Reader's Workshop?

Reader's Workshop uses a similar format to Writer's Workshop. There are several consistent components but there is much variation on how it is implemented in different classrooms.

• Mini-lessons on some aspect of literature or a reading strategy.
• Independent Reading Time, where students keep a journal and respond to the literature in terms of what they think or how they feel about what they are reading.
• Sharing Time where students share with another person their journal entries and the other person gives feedback.

During Independent Reading Time, the teacher engages in student conferences on an individual or group basis. Teachers can also engage in guided reading with groups of students who need additional support. (credit for information here within goes to Mathew Needleman)

LITERACY CAFE

 

C Comprehension	A Accuracy	F Fluency	E Expanded Vocabulary
CAFÉ is an acronym for Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, and Expanding Vocabulary, and the system includes goal-setting with students in individual conferences, posting of goals on a whole-class board, developing small group instruction based on clusters of students with similar goals, and targeting whole-class instruction based on emerging student needs. To find out more about the Literacy CAFE visit the Two Sisters by clicking here.

What Are Literature Circles?

In literature circles, small groups of students gather together to discuss a piece of literature in depth. The discussion is guided by students' response to what they have read. You may hear talk about events and characters in the book, the author's craft, or personal experiences related to the story. Literature circles provide a way for students to engage in critical thinking and reflection as they read, discuss, and respond to books. Collaboration is at the heart of this approach. Students reshape and add onto their understanding as they construct meaning with other readers. Finally, literature circles guide students to deeper understanding of what they read through structured discussion and extended written and artistic response. To find out more about literature circles, visit the Lit Circles Resource Center by clicking here.

Online Literature Circles

Using the class Haiku web page, students will integrate reading and technology. This unique learning environment helps better prepare students for 21st century skills. Students click here for the Haiku log-in page.

Activities and Links

Elementary Literature Circle Information, click here

Online Literature Groups:example, presentation

Questioning for Literature Circles, click here

Responding to Literature, articles and tips

Vocabulary Activities: http://www.vocabulary.co.il/index_main.php

For more information about the different strategies we use, click here.