Unveiling New Stories in Book Clubs

Grade 8 students are currently reading novels that they have selected as part of their book clubs unit. This year, groups have chosen to read either William Golding’s, Lord of the Flies, or Alexander Dumas’, The Count of Monte Cristo. As part of this autonomous unit, students decide amongst themselves how many pages they will read between their book club meetings, and assign jobs to each other to complete and bring to discussions. Jobs require students to analyze different elements of literature present in their novels including conflict, point of view, and plot.

Students are also asked to closely analyze examples of figurative language or complex vocabulary in their texts. During discussions, they share the analyses they complete, while also speculating on what may happen next or who their favorite characters are. Whether it is Edmond Dantes’ quest for revenge or Ralph and Piggy’s struggle for survival, students are excited to be reading together!