Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC)

Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC) is a reading and writing program for students in grades 2-6. The program uses daily 90-minute lessons focused on story-related activities, direct instruction in reading comprehension, and integrated reading and language arts activities. In a team setting, mixed-ability students work together in pairs and small groups of four to read, discuss reading to clarify vocabulary, reread for fluency, understand main ideas, comprehend stories, and work through the writing process linked to texts. Students are rewarded based on team performance to motivate cooperation. Teachers receive a two-day training session covering word structure and phonics, vocabulary development, fluency, comprehension skills, program management, and cooperative learning strategies.