The focus of this project was to review the available research on literature circles as a method of engaging students with informational texts and to create an implementation guide for teachers. The results of the research show that there is a need for effective nonfiction instruction and that including this instruction at the elementary level provides tremendous benefits for students. Literature circles are an effective way to engage students with these informatinal texts, because they offer an authenic literacy experience and provide students with the kinds of informational text interactions they will encounter in the real world. The project includes a guide providing teachers with directions for implementation and outlines the literature circle process in a step-by-step format. 

Committee Chair: Dr. Gail Goss.