Annenberg Learner: Engaging With Literature: Building Community

In this video [18:59], you will watch Latosha Rowley working with her fourth and fifth graders in a multiage setting as they discuss their novels - all historical fiction - in small groups. You will then join them as they decide on a culminating activity which they then present to others. Rich literature discussions such as those portrayed on this video don't happen automatically. Ms. Rowley notes that she has seen significant development since the beginning of the year in her students' abilities to handle the choices that she offers, in the books they decide to read, in the ways they approach discussion, and in how they choose to present their understandings for evaluation.