Fifth graders participating in a book group have first been introduced to this process of discussing literature. It's a meticulous process of modeling and stressing expectations for how these groups will function. It is an ongoing process, as children always need reminders of the various elements of good book groups. During the discussion parts of the literature groups, teachers will walk around and eaves drop on each group, sometimes offering insight and suggestions and sometimes simply taking notes as to the observations being made. All of this goes to the formal observation at the end of the book group. This assessment is based on observations and review of student journals. It includes observation of their listening and participation in the group, as well as their preparedness for groups based on what they have done with reading journals. Below is the rubric that can be used to assess the children at the conclusion of a unit.
Grading scale for Literature Groups
Name_____________________________
Date______________________________
Book title____________________________________
Grading Rubric
Works cooperatively with the group 10 _______
Is prepared for discussion group 20 _______
Uses active listening 20 _______
Stays on task during discussion 20 _______
Maintains daily journals 20 _______
Completes Book review form 10 _______
Total Score 100 _______
Comments
The book review form analysis refers to the review the children will complete of the book at the end of the unit. In a future article I will provide this document. It has them telling about what the book is about as to the basic story elements, what their favorite parts of the story were, and to give it an overall rating on a scale of 1-10 as to whether they would recommend it to another reader or not.
Prior to doing my assessment at the end of the book group I provide each child a copy of the rubric form and have them evaluate themselves. In the end, it's interesting to see how the teacher and student assessment results align.