Contemporary Short Stories

As we end the year, we will wrap up with some literature circles. In groups of FOUR, choose THREE contemporary (post 1975) short stories and create a binder that features your discussion and work related to the stories.

Each story gets its own section, highlighting the following (each task is assigned to a different group member—No one should have the same role twice, meaning for each story you take on a different role--see handout for details): 

• Setting/Plot
• Characters
• Line Illuminator
• Discussion Points

Each story should be from a different decade. We will spend time in the library to find short stories (here's a guide you can use). Once you have found your stories, find a teacher or a librarian to help you photocopy--there is a fast and efficient way to do it.

On our assigned discussion days, follow the protocol:
The person assigned to “discussion points” will act as facilitator

1. Go around the circle, each person sharing their assigned work, without any comment from other members. If you have a response to what someone says, write it down.
2. After everyone has shared their initial thoughts, any member can comment further on what has been stated.
3. After that has played out, facilitator shares their first “discussion point.” Once again, go around the circle to get everyone’s initial thoughts.
4. Then free-form discussion.
5. Second “discussion point.” Repeat steps 3 & 4.
6. Third “discussion point.” Repeat steps 3 & 4.
7. Final thoughts