Students are required to read at least three novels of their own choosing on their own time this semester. Students must keep a reading log that records when and how many pages the student read.
Also, students are required to keep a reading journal. At least twice a week students should write about what they have read. These journals should consist of SOME summary, but I really want them to tell me their thoughts, reactions, and opinions about events and characters in the book. The best example I can think of to illustrate what I want them to write about is a conversation two people may have about a movie. They may certainly discuss some parts of the movie, but they will also describe which scenes they enjoyed or disliked. They may discuss casting and character development. They may also talk about how the movie reminded them of something else. This is exactly what I want students to do with the reading journals: move beyond simple summarization and into a reflective narrative that includes their own thoughts and opinions.
After students have completed their novels, they need to create some kind of post-reading product. This could be an illustrated book jacket with a short blurb about the story, or a book talk in which they try to "sell" the book to their peers. Students can letters from one character to another, or they can rewrite a scene or ending. The possibilities are endless, and the internet is a great tool for students to use to find post-reading projects.
The first novel's deadline is Monday, September 23rd. Please remind your students of this impending date. If they have not already started reading, they need to get started this week.
Happy reading!
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