By choosing the literature and by recording their responses and insights as they read, students take ownership of their learning. They participate in reflective discussions about literature within supportive group environments. Although the following procedure refers to novel study, other literature appropriate for this method includes poetry, short narrative selections and non-fiction selections. Select four or five novels and give brief book talks on each to interest students. Four to eight copies of each novel should be available.
Students choose the novel they wish to read and form groups according to the title selected.
The teacher may read the first few pages or the first chapter with each group to interest the students in reading the novel. Group members can assist each other with new vocabulary and difficult passages. As students read, they record thoughts, feelings, ideas and questions about what they have read in their reading logs . After all students have read the novel, the group and the teacher schedule a conference. Subsequent discussions can be more analytical and include the exploration of literary elements such as plot, setting, characterization, theme, symbolism and the author's use of language.