Novel Discussion, Day Two

Objective

Students will be able to discuss a novel by posing and responding to questions, incorporating others into discussion, and presenting their own ideas and justifications.

Big Idea

Moving beyond talking at one another--true discussion.

Lesson Author

Leah Braman

Dansville, MI

Grade Level

Eleventh grade

Subjects

English / Language Arts

Literature

Standards

RL.11-12.1

Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.

RL.11-12.2

Determine two or more themes or central ideas of a text and analyze their development over the course of the text, including how they interact and build on one another to produce a complex account; provide an objective summary of the text.

SL.11-12.1

Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grades 11-12 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.

SL.11-12.1a

Come to discussions prepared, having read and researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence from texts and other research on the topic or issue to stimulate a thoughtful, well-reasoned exchange of ideas.

SL.11-12.1b

Work with peers to promote civil, democratic discussions and decision-making, set clear goals and deadlines, and establish individual roles as needed.

SL.11-12.1c

Propel conversations by posing and responding to questions that probe reasoning and evidence; ensure a hearing for a full range of positions on a topic or issue; clarify, verify, or challenge ideas and conclusions; and promote divergent and creative perspectives.

SL.11-12.1d

Respond thoughtfully to diverse perspectives; synthesize comments, claims, and evidence made on all sides of an issue; resolve contradictions when possible; and determine what additional information or research is required to deepen the investigation or complete the task.

Do Now: Learning Reflection and Work Habits

10 minutes

This classroom routine is discussed in this lesson. Students continue to give thoughtful responses which are useful for their continuing practice and my lesson planning.

Novel Discussion

20 minutes

Other Emergency Plans

Students meet with their groups to film and discuss. Most are prepared today; my reminders to be prepared for the groups' sake have proven helpful for several students. Feeling more comfortable with one discussion under their belts, students' talk today is more natural. It may not be so bad to have this extra discussion before our fishbowl, after all; we'll likely see even stronger discussion when we finally see a good example on our next reading day.

Want to start with a model rather than use your students? Check out how I modeled good discussion in this lesson.

Read

15 minutes

I again give students time to read, knowing that many students won't read at home if they aren't engaged or at least nearly done from reading in class. Students get comfortable and push further into their novels.

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