This post has been finalized for Summer 2009.

10th Grade American Literature CP / Honors

Reading during the summer break absolutely helps students academically in the year ahead.

CP Students:
This summer we expect all upcoming tenth graders to read at least THREE books (Honors students see below). One of the books should be a non-fiction book (e.g., biography/autobiography, scientific or political writing); otherwise, each student may choose books that he/she finds interesting and that are appropriate for his/her reading level. After all, reading should be an enjoyable activity.

If you need some ideas, check out the AHS reading list posted on this website http://teacherweb.com/GA/Aquinas/AJLloyd/hf6.stm; or go to Amazon.com and read various reviews of popular books for teenagers; or go to the nearest library or bookstore and browse until you find something that catches your eye.

As a follow-up to your reading, I would like you to turn in a typed response including the following information for ONE of your book choices.

READING RESPONSES MUST FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES:
Consider this a formal writing assignment: papers should be typed in 10- or 12-point plain font (e.g., Times New Roman); grammar, spelling, usage, etc. count!

• For each book, include: your name, the due date, the class name (Am Lit CP / Am Lit H), and your teacher's name in the top right corner. [Single-space; flush right.]
• For each book, sikp one line and include: title, author, genre, and number of pages on the left side. [Single-space; flush left.]
• In one paragraph explain the basic plot of the book.
• Write a brief response to the book. Your response should be emotional, insightful, reflective...

Then, choose 3 of the following questions to answer in detail:

1) What connections are there between the book and your life? Explain.

2) What are the best parts of the book? Why?

3) What was the most important word in the book? The most important passage? The most important event? Explain.

4) How did the main character grow or change throughout the book? EXPLAIN.

5) What was the author trying to say about life and living?

6) Did you like the ending? Why or why not? How would you change it?

7) Are there any unanswered questions you have after reading this book? Explain.

HONORS - SUMMER 2009:

1. Read a minimum of THREE novels of your choice.
2. Read at least ONE non-fiction book (e.g., biography/autobiography, scientific or political writing).
3. In each case, pick books you'll enjoy that are appropriate to your reading level (Honors students should be reading at least 1-2 years above grade level).
4. Additionally, read Black Elk Speaks by John G. Neihardt. We will use this novel during our first unit of study. [ISBN: 0-8032-8385-7 ]
5. To encourage thoughtful reading, I want you to write (type) responses for three of your books: one for the non-fiction, one for Black Elk, and the third for one of your other reading choices. Follow the Reading Response Guidelines listed above.
6. Click on the following link and read the attached document. A basic understanding of this material is imperative to begin the year. We will discuss the document together in class.
   http://teacherweb.com/GA/Aquinas/AJLloyd/photo2.stm