The Last Word

Kelly Gallagher’s idea of THE LAST WORD is one of the best to get students talking and thinking about their book selections!  When students are reading their CHOICE selections from a particular concept (Struggles and Perseverance, for example), they are asked to find a passage to share. They do not tell the group WHY it was selected.  The group tells the reader WHY THEY THINK it was selected.  Then the reader shares his/her thoughts.    Below is what each student is given.  The magic begins as soon as students start to share.  Immediately, the question of the day is…”James, do you have another one of the books that he/she is reading?”  Thus begins the dealing of books at a face pace!

The Last Word…..

 

The passage I am reading is from _______________________________(give title) and is on page _______________.

 

Why I am selecting to read this… (circle one or more)

 

• Passages you find beautiful

 

• Passages you find interesting

 

• Passages that exhibit great writing

 

• Passages that anger you

 

• Passages that trouble you

 

• Passages that perplex you

 

• Passages that raise your curiosity

 

• Passages you find humorous

 

• Passages that challenge you to think differently