Fourth Grade Advanced Subject Group Reading

Claxton’s fourth graders have worked with a program called Junior Great Books. The Great Books program is an educational movement whose mission is “to advance the critical, reflective thinking and social and civic engagement of readers of all ages through Shared Inquiry™ discussion of works and ideas of enduring value.”

In Junior Great Books, students share meaningful literature and participate in discussions to improve reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. Our group has read four stories chosen as an introduction to this work. We have practiced many reading skills and also how to positively participate in a seminar discussion. The social interaction skills are often as important as the content.

I am sending home thinking guides that helped direct our thoughts and discussion. Also included is a participation map from one of our discussions. This map shows student contributions to our conversation and will also reflect questions and interaction from the group. 

Our next project is to put our communication skills to use through a 'book club' focusing on Neil Gaiman's novel Coraline. Students have weekly reading assignments and we'll cover the first (pp.3-34) on October 15. 

Here's a blurb of Mr. Gaiman reading from his work:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bghlhgKnm0

Thanks so much for your continued support of the AIG program!