Note and Quote
Write your favorite lines from the book on a sentence strip, easel pad or other medium so everyone can see. When it is your turn to share, read the quote and tell why you chose these lines; be specific and cite any
connections you can make with your own experiences. Why are those words thoughtful or funny or sad and what do they mean to you? 
Save the Last Word
Again, come prepared to the connection circle by bringing a “note and quote”. Everyone in the group has an opportunity to respond to your “note and quote” by suggesting connections, relating experiences and asking questions. You must remain silent until everyone else has discussed your quote, then you get the “last word” by stating your opinions.
That's a Fact
Using some sort of journal or "flap book", read as many books in the collection that you can, writing down at least one "fact" for each book. Share your facts with the rest of the group and come up with the one fact that no one else will say to the whole group. Remember to write title and author on the outside of the flap for reference.
Written Conversation
Slow down the conversation, give the group a large piece of paper and each reader a different colored marker and have them “write” their conversation. What connections do you have with the book? What did the book make you think about?
Picture Pass
Each group gets a square/rectangle of butcher paper. Each member of the group draws an incident in the story. After a few minutes, rotate the paper so you no longer have your own picture. Study the picture for story clues and add more of the story by drawing more details. Encourage everyone to treat each other’s “artful response” with respect. After rotating the paper all the way around the group, you'll find your own drawing has been expanded. Additional activities might include asking the group to sequence the events and decide which are the beginning, middle and ending of the story. In addition, you may want to try this activity with partners instead of a group.
Sketch to Stretch: Sketch your interpretation of the meaning of the story (not a summary). Your connection to the meaning can be explained in print, a web or orally to a partner.
Contact us