Summer Reading
Before classes begin in August 2023, read and annotate ONE of the following novels:
You will turn in your annotated text the first day of class. If you need financial assistance purchasing the book, let me or Ms. Cates, English Department Chair, know ASAP: [email protected] OR [email protected].
It is imperative that you read only the book, not other online resources or shortcuts offered. Avoid watching the mini-series or film adaptations, too, as these contain significant differences. If this proves too challenging, let me know, and we will work on changing your schedule.
As you annotate, discern how the central opposition presents throughout the text. Pay attention to the characterization of the protagonist and how the setting and other characters influence decisions, which eventually lead to the protagonist's transformation. Note specific devices’ effects elicited on the page and then further beyond, in your imagination. Offer insights and questions throughout the work to demonstrate active engagement. Include text talk that reveals your metacognition as you attempt to pinpoint what the author is communicating and how you can tell. For example, in The Handmaid’s Tale, clothing provides visual cues of various characters’ functions and authority, so a scene when one character dresses out of costume is a moment when Atwood is communicating a message to her audience. What is Atwood’s message, and why does it matter?
Annotate with an eye on the specific points mentioned above AND demonstrate interaction with the text. Your annotated text is due the first day of class. Students frequently ask if three-level annotations are required on each page. The rubric is designed for me to assess the quality of your annotations, not the quantity. Late work will not receive full credit.
Give yourself AMPLE time to read the text and annotate the ENTIRE text.
Annotation Rubric (100 pt. Rehearse Grade)
Criterion A. Understanding & Interpretation
Criterion B. Appreciation of the Writer's Choices
Criterion C. Metacognition
Criterion D. Text Talk
I look forward to seeing you in August. Cheers! ~Mrs. Osburn
- The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
- Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
- Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
You will turn in your annotated text the first day of class. If you need financial assistance purchasing the book, let me or Ms. Cates, English Department Chair, know ASAP: [email protected] OR [email protected].
It is imperative that you read only the book, not other online resources or shortcuts offered. Avoid watching the mini-series or film adaptations, too, as these contain significant differences. If this proves too challenging, let me know, and we will work on changing your schedule.
As you annotate, discern how the central opposition presents throughout the text. Pay attention to the characterization of the protagonist and how the setting and other characters influence decisions, which eventually lead to the protagonist's transformation. Note specific devices’ effects elicited on the page and then further beyond, in your imagination. Offer insights and questions throughout the work to demonstrate active engagement. Include text talk that reveals your metacognition as you attempt to pinpoint what the author is communicating and how you can tell. For example, in The Handmaid’s Tale, clothing provides visual cues of various characters’ functions and authority, so a scene when one character dresses out of costume is a moment when Atwood is communicating a message to her audience. What is Atwood’s message, and why does it matter?
Annotate with an eye on the specific points mentioned above AND demonstrate interaction with the text. Your annotated text is due the first day of class. Students frequently ask if three-level annotations are required on each page. The rubric is designed for me to assess the quality of your annotations, not the quantity. Late work will not receive full credit.
Give yourself AMPLE time to read the text and annotate the ENTIRE text.
Annotation Rubric (100 pt. Rehearse Grade)
Criterion A. Understanding & Interpretation
Criterion B. Appreciation of the Writer's Choices
Criterion C. Metacognition
Criterion D. Text Talk
I look forward to seeing you in August. Cheers! ~Mrs. Osburn