Implementation of Literature Circles in Oregon Middle Schools

Abstract

Background: Literature circles at their most basic form are a small group discussion centered around a shared text. They have been present in the literature since the early 1990's. Today, literature circles are the subject of books, action research projects, and journal articles. Aims: The study aims to gather data on the use of literature circles through a teacher survey and teacher interviews. The goal is to ascertain how middle school teachers in Oregon are using the tool in their classroom, whether they observe positive student engagement in the practice, and to ascertain the areas in which they see literature circles impacting student outcomes.The Results: The 26 teachers who completed the survey implemented literature circles with variety. Lesser used practices included utilizing online discussions and nonfiction text. Teachers reported that social emotional learning, comprehension, literacy, and vocabulary outcomes were impacted through literature circles. Discussion: The survey gives an indication that literature circles are not a homogenous practice, but an evolving tool that can be fitted to the needs of students. Literature circles provide the opportunity for rich discussion and connection between subjects and classmates.

Narrowing the Gender Gap in Literature Circle to Promote EFL Senior High School Students’ Reading Engagement

“…Literature circles have an effect on students' social emotion, comprehensive ability, literacy, and rich vocabulary. The finding suggested that literature circles were not a fixed method but rather an adaptable tool that may be used to meet the demands of different students with distinctive reading competence (Conant, 2018). Therefore, through the literature circles, it provides an opportunity for in-depth conversation and connections between topics and peers.…”