Our class is starting an exciting new program called “Classroom Book Clubs”. For the next few weeks, students will be reading books and discussing them in small groups. Each group has 4 to 6 students who selected the same book. Since this is something new, I wanted to share how this program works so that you can best support your child.

Each student has been given a copy of his or her book to read. I will provide 30 minutes of reading time each day, but if they do not complete their assigned reading they will need to take the book home to finish. The reading page assignments are created by the book club groups on a weekly basis and will be written on a bookmark for reference. In addition, students will have a short assignment such as writing a summary, creating discussion questions, or writing notes about parts they want to discuss. It will be important for each member of the group to complete the required reading and assignment each week so they can contribute to the discussion. It is also important that they do NOT read ahead of the assigned pages because this will spoil the discussion.

Ways you can help your child experience success with Classroom Book Clubs:

1. Set up a regular quiet reading time after school or before bed.
2. Check to make sure the weekly assignment has been completed (due each Friday)
3. Discuss the book with your child. Ask questions and show interest in what they are reading. You can even get your own copy and read along!
4. If you feel your child is having trouble understanding the book, take turns reading pages aloud and discussing the story.

I will be assessing Classroom Book Clubs based on completion of weekly assignments and participation during the meetings. Please contact me if you have any further questions. Students received their books today and we will have our first book club meeting next Friday! We are excited to have this chance to read books of our choice and talk about them with our peers!