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In Reading 7 and Literature 8, students read a variety of fiction to broaden their literacy experience and knowledge
base. After completing these two courses, students will have worked with the following types of fiction: historical
fiction, science fiction, fantasy, contemporary realistic fiction, survival fiction, mystery, biographical fiction, and classical
fiction including mythology. Research shows that people who read a lot become more fluent and develop an enjoyment for
reading. To increase comprehension, students need large chunks of time to read with minimal distractions, opportunities
to reflect on what they read and to respond to what they read, and some choice in what they read. The more they consider
their personal reactions to characters and plot lines, the more they visualize and make connections between literature and
their lives, the more comprehension and enjoyment will develop. In Reading and Literature classes, students reflect
and write in journals, they reflect and write reports or create projects, they reflect and participate in discussions.
Events and Announcements
Updated 11/12/09
In Reading, students will read three class novels, several independent novels, and examine literary terms
and topics. Projects are created for four free reading novel selections and are chosen from a list of options. Due
dates for the second book project are Dec. 10th/11th. Novels used for projects are checked out from our LMC or
Mrs. K's room and must be approved. Currently, students are reading The Adventures of Ulysses, by Bernard
Evslin, as a class.
In Literature, students also study three class novels and read novels for book
reports, as well as study several literary terms. The book report has a specific, required, 6-paragraph format and is
written about an approved free reading fiction selection checked out from our LMC or my room. Due dates for
the second report - rough draft - are Dec. 1st/2nd. Once I have returned their edited draft, they have 3-4
days to type a final copy. Currently, students are reading The Contender, by Robert Lipsyte, as a class.
For additional information about the 7th grade book projects or the 8th grade Literature reports, see the
link to those in this website.
New high school English electives that I am teaching this year include Mythology,
Short Story 1 & 2, and Individualized Reading. These classes may be offered as full block classes or skinnies.
Mythology is designed to enrich students' understanding of language, vocabulary, and allusions; and
students will examine the effects of this literature on human nature and the hero's journey. Myths are universal,
occurring in almost all cultures. They have serious purposes and importance to a culture, dealing with basic questions
about the nature of the world and of human experience. This course will involve intensive study of the myths, sagas,
and legends of a variety of cultures. It involves a considerable amount of reading, writing, and note-taking.
Short Story gives students the opportunity to experience and enjoy the world of short stories. Students will read
extensively. They will discuss literary terms and their application in a variety of short stories. Active
participation in class discussion is required, as well as some written responses to the literature.
Short Story
2 is a similar course of study, focusing on science fiction, fantasy, and plays.
Individualized Reading gives students
the chance to read extensively and increase their reading skills. They will set personal reading goals, read a variety
of literature, record what they read, and conference frequently.
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Who's Who in Literature?
Of which novel does this remind you?
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In the News
In In October, ask your 7th grader about life far into the future. They are listening to the story
of Jonas, who lives hundreds of years in the future, in a time when scientific advancements have made some amazing things
possible. However, Jonas is faced with quite a dilemma as he is trained for his career. Ask what they are surprised by
as they listen to the science fiction novel The Giver.
In October, ask
your 8th grader about the effects of radiation in the environment. They are listening to the story of Anne, who has
been living on her own for a year, apparently the only person to survive the nuclear attack, and living safely on a farm
in a valley. Then someone appears over the ridge, walking, searching for life anywhere. Ask them what is happening
in Z for Zachariah.
TAG events
I am not the 7-12 TAG coordinator this year as I'm now teaching several new classes. Mrs.
Wolfensperger will answer questions about Mock Trial.
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