Each month, students will read one book independently. Though they will have a direction about what type of book to choose, they will decide what book interests them. 

This month, students will starting by reading book club novels, so that they can study the way the author uses the narrative elements of characters, conflict, plot, setting, and theme to craft an engaging story.  By the end of the month, students will complete an assignment that helps them demonstrate their understanding of these skills, utilizing their choice book. (See details in the document below)

All students have chosen their book club book and should be reading nightly as well as bringing their book into class to use as needed. 

As a mom to a teenager, I have felt the pain of one word answers when I tried to talk to them about their reading.

How's the book? Fine. 

Did you pick it yourself? Yeah. 

It can be frustrating, but asking the right types of questions can can encourage your student actually talk about what they've read. It can also give them a space to work out their thoughts and practice discussions so that they feel more confident when we do the same in class. 

Some open-ended questions to try are: 

• Why did you choose that book? What made you want to read it?

• What happened in the book you just read? (summarizing is key skill!)

• Why is that important? What do you think will happen next?

• What's the biggest issue your central character is facing right now? Do you agree with how they're handling it?

• What is something that you've read or watched before that reminds you of the book your reading now? Why?