Each month students will be asked to read a book and one page of discussion questions related to the story.  Written answers are welcome, but certainly not required and will not be collected or reviewed/graded by anyone!  At the monthly meeting, with the help of Robin Smith, children's librarian, we will have a book discussion using a seminar model.  I was trained in this classroom management technique at a T.A.G. (talented and gifted) teaching seminar.  Features of the seminar model include:

• Seats are arranged in two concentric circles.  The inner circle is for anyone who has read the book and might participate in the discussion.  The outer circle is for those who haven’t read the book, but would like to listen to the discussion and any other observers.
• There will be a free exchange of ideas, which requires respectful listening, but does not include raising hands to be acknowledged by the facilitator.  The facilitator tries to only help the conversation stay on topic, and might introduce the next question to the discussion.
• Those in the outer circle might find themselves with something important to share.  They may raise a hand, be acknowledged by the facilitator, and join the discussion temporarily.

Part of the seminar format is to help students develop conversation skills.  Therefore, the facilitator will gently and surreptitiously keep a vocal few from dominating the discussion.  No student will ever be asked to speak if he or she doesn’t want to.