Using TWP assigned folders, students read and discuss articles each week in their own group using a threaded discussion format. A rubric was developed to guide the students in providing direction to their answers. Focusing questions were also introduced by the instructor to facilitate the discussion. The reading rubric used is available at http://www.uvm.edu/pt3/EDSC11F2004/Discussionrubric.html
Student responses have been thoughtful, revealing not only their understanding of the article but lots of interesting things about themselves. This helped shape our picture of their prior knowledge and ability to express their thinking in writing.