Minimum Requirements
• Read at least two novels from the selected list.
• Complete at least two Book Reports (one for each novel)
• Create and present to class at least two Artistic Responses (A and B)
• Two timed writing sessions
• Write at least one 4-6 page essay on one of the novels you have read.
Book reports: Must be typed/double spaced and use standard margins and fonts.
*Make a judgment about the book. Be fair but don’t be afraid to give high praise or strong criticism. Be certain you make a clear judgment, as this will be the foundation of the review.
*In the introduction, use a hook to grab the reader’s attention, but make sure the hook fits the tone of your judgment (it will be a prelude to expressing your opinion). In the introduction, be sure to give the author’s name, the title of the book, and the genre it is. Finally, in the introduction, give your opinion/judgment of the novel.
*In the body paragraphs, include:
-a summary of the novel in a few short sentences, including the conflict/plot and setting. Make this summary clear and crisp.
-a discussion of the main characters: Are they believable? Likeable? Do you get to know the characters in depth or superficially?
-explain/defend your reasons for the judgment you’ve made: Why is this a well-written book? Or why not? Is it a challenging novel? Does it relate to your life? Can readers learn from it? Use details/quotes from the novel to support your claims. In this part, include as many paragraphs as you need.
*In the conclusion, make a recommendation to the reader. Wrap up in an interesting way.
Artistic Responses:
A. Student will prepare a creative presentation in which she/he creates a piece of art (painting, poem, song, etc.) that responds to/interprets one of the novels. In addition to the presentation there must be a written statement of Artistic Intent (1-2 pages). DETAILS TBA IN CLASS.
B. Student will prepare a creative presentation in which she/he compares some piece of art (painting, poem, song, etc.) to one of the novels.
Presentations will be graded on insight and depth, preparation, and public speaking skills including voice, posture, and eye contact.
Timed Writing: Two times this Quarter, you will have a timed, “on-demand” writing activity about your independent reading book. You will have a 30-minute period to write on an aspect of the book. You will not be told the aspect in advance. Timed writing will be graded on organization, completeness, accuracy, and insight. We will have a mini-lesson on how to succeed at timed writing before the first on-demand writing activity
Essay: Student will work with the teacher to develop a thesis that explores some aspect of the novel’s theme and symbolism. Due by end of period on the second to last day of class.
There will be NO INCOMPLETES GIVEN. All assigned work must be turned in by the end of the period on the last day that the class meets. All work not turned in by this time will not be graded and assignments that are missing will be graded as ZEROS.
