From the Classroom

This term, students in 5/6 have begun an engaging Literature Circles program, providing opportunities to develop their reading comprehension, discussion and critical thinking skills through shared reading experiences. Students were placed into small reading groups and participated in a “book tasting”, where they explored a selection of texts before choosing a book that interested and challenged them. Each week, students meet with their groups to read, discuss and respond to their chosen text.

To support students in developing a deeper understanding of their books, students investigated the background information connected to their chosen texts. They were provided with specific research questions designed to help them explore important historical, cultural, geographical and contextual information that may influence the characters, setting, events and themes within their books. This research also helped students build their understanding of unfamiliar vocabulary, concepts and ideas they may encounter as they read.

Students then collaborated to organise and synthesise their findings into informative posters. These included information about the main characters and setting, as well as key background information discovered through their research. This process encouraged students to make connections between their research and their developing understanding of the text, while also building their skills in researching, summarising, selecting relevant information and presenting their learning clearly.