Reading Group Student Packet for Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This reading group packet allows students to document their thinking while reading and gives the teacher a means to assess student comprehension. The reading packet differs from literature circles in a few definitive ways. First, all students are required to focus on the same things as they read the text as opposed to serving specific roles. Second, the learning objectives and student work in the packet allows the teacher to plan out front-loading skills before students read the assigned section of the book, clear teaching objectives for conferences/small groups as they are reading, and reteaching where necessary after the reading is complete. The shared packet also allows students to come to a small group meeting prepared to talk about any aspect of the current reading focus as all students are required to complete all parts of the reading packet.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a level U text (guided reading). The book is about a boy who was born with a facial deformity who must face going to school for the first time in fifth grade. As the main characters learn how to sort through difficult circumstances and allow true friendships to perserve, students learn how to face social issues and become a positive citizen in their school and community.