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Summer Reading [Update]

Alright, now that we're closer to the actual beginning of school, it's time for a reminder concerning summer reading. As you know, we've lessened the amount of work due at the beginning of the term. Below is a complete list of the requirements:

ALL STUDENTS entering grades 9-12 will read ONE required book + ONE book (or TWO if in honors) of the student's choice. The required books for each class are listed below:
Freshmen ~ Introduction to Writing and Literature
The Alchemist, by Paulo Coehlo

Sophomores ~ American Literature
The Bridge of San Luis Rey, by Thornton Wilder

Juniors ~ British Literature
Life of Pi, by Yann Martel

Seniors ~ College-Prep English
Nickel and Dimed, by Barbara Ehrenreich, OR Bayou Farewell, by Mike Tidwell

Instead of the traditional exam on the required book, all students will write an in-class essay upon returning to school. Students will be able to use their books for the essay and will be expected to quote directly from the text. Also, students will develop an outline in class based on a topic chosen from a list.
In-Class essays will be written IN CLASS on Monday 8/20.
IN ADDITION each student will compose a reading guide for each additional book. Each report should be typed, double-spaced and formatted according to MLA. Please use 1" margins and 12-point Times New Roman. Include the following:
  • A paragraph of no more than 100 words summarizing the book, including a statement concerning the central theme or idea.
  • A paragraph that introduces and explains a significant quote from the book; the quote should be no longer than three lines and should be in quotation marks; please cite the page number at the end of the quote -- i.e. (#).
  • Finally, a one-paragraph review of the book, again about 100 words; please include WHY you did or did not like the book; feel free to compare it to other books (or films).
BOTH student and parent(s) need to sign the bottom of the report certifying that the book was parent-approved and was read in its entirety. This is required.

Reading Guides are due Thursday 8/16 (1st full day).



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