Definition: CIRC is a comprehensive
approach to instruction in reading and composition/language arts for students
in grades 2-6.In CIRC reading, students are taught in reading groups and then
return to mixed ability teams to work on a series of cognitively engaging
activities, including partner reading, making predictions, identification of
characters, settings, problem and problem solutions, summarization, vocabulary,
reading comprehension exercises, and story-related writing. Teachers use
anthologies, basal readers, and/or novels, much as they would in traditional
reading programs. In most CIRC activities, students follow a sequence of
teacher instruction, team practice, team preassessments, and quiz. Students do
not take the quiz until their teammates have determined that they are ready.
Team rewards are certificates based on the average performance of all team
members on all reading and writing activities. Because students work on
materials appropriate to their reading levels, they have equal opportunities
for success.
Steps: CIRC-Reading requires two days of
training for teachers and administrators, plus materials. Additional
training/follow-up days are recommended. The program provides a structure for
teachers and students, and this structure is given to teachers in CIRC training
sessions.
When To Use:
CIRC could be conducted at any time during the language arts
block.
Resources:
Johns Hopkins University
3505 North Charles St.
Baltimore, MD21218
410-516-8857
www.ed.gov/pub/EPTW/eptw4/eptw4c.html
If Minds Matter: A Forward to the Future Vol. II.Palatine, IL:
IRI/Skylight Publishers
Slavin, Robert E. (1990) Cooperative Learning: Theory,
Research, and
Practice.Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Example:
Because of the specific nature of CIRC, examples of lessons were not available for publication in this handbook.