English II- Pre-AP 2014 Summer Reading Assignment

Future Pre-AP English II Students and Parents,

I am looking forward to working with you next year as we continue your preparation towards Advanced Placement Language and Literature. We will begin the school year with the unit Personal Journeys, which will feature a series of poems, essays, Pre-AP Laying the Foundation analysis techniques, and an in-depth study of Yann Martel’s Life of Pi. While we will review the Pre-AP concepts of analysis, the first two weeks of school will focus heavily on the summer reading.

I will answer questions via e-mail throughout the summer, so please do not hesitate to contact me if you need clarification. The assignment will also be posted online and available at the front office. I hope that you have a great summer!

Mrs. Parker

English II Pre-AP

Novel: Life of Pi (fiction), Yann Martel

An in-class essay test is required on the first week of school.

Parents: You are encouraged to preview the novel in order to review the content and themes. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me for an alternative reading, preferably prior to the last week of the summer.

Journal: Purchase a small spiral notebook/ college-ruled required

Reading Assignment: Read and annotate the novel. Follow the guidelines for analysis, as your annotations should not be a summary of the entire book. I am often asked by students, “How many annotations are required?” My answer, “I prefer quality over quantity.”

Annotation Set-up:In your spiral, make your annotations clear and concise following the format: “Quote”/ Context + Commentary/Observations+ Extended Commentary/Significance

  • For each annotation select a significant quote/detail from the book
  • Identify the quote/detail as Literary or Language analysis (Level I-VI)
  • Provide the page number in parenthesis
  • Give the context of the quote- situation and what is happening
  • Give important commentary (opinions/reactions/observations)
  • Offer insightful explanation that connects to theme(s), symbol, figurative language, and other literary elements. (this proves…demonstrates… emphasizes)

See the annotation Close Reading Techniques for Annotations Guidelines and rubric.

Journal Writing Topics:Along with your summer reading, I also want to assess writing for the following elements: ideas, elaboration/organization, voice, word choice, and conventions. Each journal should be hand-written and at least 26 linesin length (average 10 words per line). Make sure to focus on the specific prompt and concentrate on detailedand descriptive writing. Your writing will count for 15% of your summer assignment grade.

Write about three (3) of the following topics and reflect:

Journal #1: It’s All in a Name-Once upon a time, and without your consent, you were given a name unique to YOU. While you probably have not given it much thought since, it’s time to reflect on your nom de plum. Research the meaning of your name and reflect on the following: What is the literal and/or symbolic meaning? Does your name fit who you are, or would you change it?How did you get your name? Any other insights you have attributed to your name?

Journal #2: My Life Motto/Quote- What would you consider your life motto or a quote that defines your outlook on life? Explain why you relate to this quote, and what it says about you.

Journal #3: A Walk in My Shoes-Write a poem about your shoes, yes, shoes. First look at them and give a detailed description. How do these particular shoes reflect your personality (i.e. athletic shoes, cowboy boots, flip-flops). Now, get serious, what path have your shoes taken you on (literally, metaphorically, or even spiritually). Where will they carry you in the future?

Journal #4: Instagram-Take photograph (not a “selfie”) that tells a story. Create a vivid scene using imagery, diction, details, and language. Scan or tape the photo into your journal.

Journal #5:Movie Review- AFTER READING THE BOOK, watch the movie, Life of Pi, and write a movie review. You might need to read a movie review in order to understand the format: summary/film techniques/critique on whether the movie was true to the book/ your overall impression and final opinions on the film.

Have a fabulous summer! Remember, first impressions are important. Be prepared on the first day of class. I’m sure you are already aware that my class will require commitment and hard work. Your dedication will pay off as you become ready for your college-level courses in the near future.