Dear Rising 8th graders and parents:
I know that you’re all ready for the break of a summer vacation, as am I. However, I wanted to remind you that over the summer, there is still a summer reading requirement.
Over this summer, you need to read two novels. For the first book, I want you to choose a book from the summer reading display at a bookstore (for example, Barnes and Noble or Books-A-Million). These books are typically classic literature. Make sure you choose a book that is at eighth grade reading level or above. For this novel, you will complete a book review based on the assignment sheet attached.
Instead of giving you books to choose from, I am asking you to choose books at or above your grade level to read. I have included a short list of books NOT to read, as we may be reading them during the school year. Please feel free to read any other book at or above grade level. If you need help choosing a book, either Mrs. Knowlton or I will be more than glad to make individual recommendations. Feel free to call me with questions at 706-302-8168, and I will be more than glad to help.
For your second summer reading book, I want you to read The Red Pony, by John Steinbeck. We will be discussing this book as a class the first week or two of school, and there will be a test on it! There are copies available in the front office if you don’t want to purchase one for yourself. You just have to sign your name and tell me what book number is on the inside cover. You will be responsible for returning this book to me the day of the test, or for purchasing a new copy if you loose yours.
The book review is due the second day of school, Monday, August 18th. I hope you enjoy your books!
Beth Tures
PLEASE DO NOT READ THE FOLLOWING FOR SUMMER READING:
8th Grade
Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card
Johnny Tremain, by Esther Forbes
Romeo and Juliet, by William Shakespeare
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
Book Review Project:
To be completed for the book from the summer reading display.
After you have finished reading your book, you will complete a book review. This will include the name of the book and author, a brief summary of the book (NO SPOILERS, PLEASE), and your personal opinion of the book. It is not enough to say that the book is good or bad. You must support your opinion with specific references to the book, including quotes. The completed project must be typed, double spaced, in 12 point, Times New Roman font. It should be between 2/3 and one full page. These projects will be given to Mrs. Knowlton after they are graded, so that other students in the future can use your reviews to help them choose summer reading books of their own.
You must write in complete sentences and complete paragraphs!
Paper Bag Project:
To be completed for the book of your own choice.
After reading your free choice book, you will create a “paper bag report”. First, get one brown paper lunch bag. On the front of the bag, you will draw a scene from the novel. Include the title and author, and your own name. On the back of the bag, you will write the names of the main characters and supporting characters. You will also write about the setting, conflict, and resolution of the novel on the back of the bag (*write small!).
Inside the bag, place at least 8 objects that represent significant events in the novel, or aspects of the character’s personalities. At least 4 of the objects should be things you have handmade. In the bag with each object, place an explanation on a 3 x 5 index card for WHY you have included that object and what it represents (8 cards total).
Both projects are due on August 17th, the first Friday of the school year.