Reading is a skill that is used throughout our whole lives. It is not something you learn how to do and that’s all there is to it, like tying your shoe. Rather, it is a talent that should be practiced and worked on for constant improvement. Many children throughout the world do not have the luxury of having access to books. Take advantage of our vast supply of reading materials that contain the knowledge and challenges that will make you a critical thinker. I challenge you to read at least 25 books over the course of this school year. If you obtain this goal, then I guarantee you will become a more fluent (faster) reader as well as a more intelligent person.

Choose one of the following to show me what you have gained from reading the book.

1. Write 2 well thought-out paragraphs as a summary describing:

characters (Who), setting (Where and When) plot (What happens)

theme/important issues (such as racism, courage, struggles, love, etc.) moral of the story (if there is one).

2. Describe an important character and explain how he/she played a role in the plot, setting, and/or theme, etc.

3. Explain your favorite part of the book and why. Also include your emotions during that part. Examples: anger, sadness, excitement, joyful, humor, etc.

4. Share some strong connections you made to the book. Be specific about what happened in the book and how it connected to your life.

5. Tell me how this book affected your thinking or your life. Again, be specific about what happened that meant so much to you.

*Each book must be at least 150 pages or at your reading level. Under 150 pages must have my approval.

*Paraphrasing (from the back of the book) is not a book summary. It is plagiarism, and it will be dealt with under the school’s plagiarism policy.

BOOK REVIEWS

Use the same format as a summary, but a review is a little more in-depth. Along with the 2 paragraph summary you must add your opinion and ideas in a well thought-out paragraph at the end. Some suggestions to include: (3 to 4 total paragraphs)

· Did you like/dislike and why

· What interested you about the book – favorite parts

· Emotions during specific parts

· Any other feelings you have about the book

· Would you recommend it? Why?

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