While there are some definite advantages in having the entire class read and discuss one novel, there are also disadvantages in that it denies you choice. This independent reading project will expose you to great literature while allowing you choice. Your assignment for the first nine weeks will be to select and read a novel from the list on reserve in the library.
While you read, you will keep a Reader Response Log. Stop six times throughout the novel and write a log. Your log will be one page, front and back.
Front Page: Summarize the section for that logKeep the logs in your response journal. The first three entries will be handed in on and the last three on . Grades will be based on depth of thought and effort. If you are concerned about whether or not you are on the right track, please bring your journal to me, and I’ll be happy to look at it.Back Page: Write a reaction to the section. A reaction is your chance to think and write about what you’ve read. Do not summarize – you did that on the front. You can write directly to the author, a character, me, or another student. Your reaction can also be freewriting as your mind works its way through the novel. Please include any questions you have – you will probably answer them as you continue reading, or you can talk about it with another student or me.
A final thought: Yes, you could make things easier
by reading the yellow and black summaries or by watching the video.
However, summaries are boring and the videos are usually quite different
(plus, they aren’t broken down into chapters). If you feel tempted,
remember that you are the one who chose to take this course and all that
goes with it. Take time to read and enjoy -- there is
something in the experience of a book that you just can’t get anywhere
else.