Literature+Circle+Assignment


 * Who is a Person? Literature Circle Assignment**

The novel you are reading with your group was chosen because it features a group or individual that has been on the fringes of society. As you read, keep in mind our essential question, Who is a Person? Look for details in the reading that show how society views your character(s) and how the character(s) view their situation.

As you progress with your reading, you should make this essential question a part of your group discussions. When you are near the end of your book, your group will work together to create a WIKI page that shows how your person/group has been on the “outside” of society and how reading the book has influenced your understanding of “personhood” in American society.


 * Your group WIKI should answer or address the following:**


 * Discuss the experience of your character(s) as they deal with cultural, racial, gender, or ability bias.
 * What challenges does your character(s) face?
 * What victories does your character(s) have?
 * What is the foundation of the discrimination/bias in your book? Is it based on long-held opinions and attitudes or is it more reactionary?
 * What is the author’s attitude? What is he/she trying to say about this issue? What is the thesis of your story? How do you know?
 * How does the author make the character(s) accessible to readers? Can you relate to the character(s)’ struggles? Why do you care about your character(s)’ circumstances?
 * What is the best advice or lesson you can take from your reading?


 * This multi-faceted reading project will include the following graded components:**


 * Daily group discussion and reading time is to be focused and purposeful.
 * You must come prepared each day to contribute to your group discussions. Reading must be completed and literature circle “role” sheets should be prepared before class.
 * Individual reading reflections should reflect close reading and high-level thinking.
 * Your group’s WIKI should reflect your growth and understanding about the specific person/group featured in your book and address the essential question.
 * You will have a culminating assignment over this entire unit that will include a well-developed written piece.