KRCS Summer Reading 2016-17
Seventh Grade
Required English Titles:
Diamonds in the Shadows, by Caroline B. Cooney,
ISBN# 978-1400074242
Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World, by Jennifer Armstrong,
ISBN# 0375810498
The seventh grade reading requirement has a two-fold purpose. The selected novels are intended not only to
introduce students to literary classics but also to encourage life-long reading. In order to prepare for class
discussion, students are encouraged to think critically as they read. Active readers should jot down notes and
highlight text while reading. Keep in mind that a well-read book looks like a well-read book! For each of the
required novels, a directed reading guide has been provided. These questions not only highlight significant
content, but they also encourage higher-level thinking skills. By using the guides, students will read with more
purpose, have a deeper understanding of the novels, engage more meaningfully in class discussions, and be
more prepared for writing assignments. Students should bring to class any notes they take over the novels.
Following each required title is an ISBN number that will be located above the barcode on the book.
Purchasing this edition will facilitate class discussion of specific passages and ensure that everyone has the
same pagination. If the specific edition listed below is not available, please use any unabridged version of
the title. Should you have further questions about editions, please contact the English Department Chair, Stacy
Volz, [email protected] .
Students who are enrolled by July 5th are expected to read all required selections. Students who enroll after
July 5th but before July 25th should read at least one of the required selections. Students who enroll after July
25th are strongly encouraged to read one selection and can contact Stacy Volz, English Department Chair, to
make individual arrangements.
Have an enjoyable and restful summer – and enjoy your reading! We look forward to seeing you in August.
KRCS English Department
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KRCS Summer Reading 2016-17
Seventh Grade
Directed Reading
Diamonds in the Shadows, by Caroline B. Cooney
ISBN# 978-1400074242
1.
Why don’t the Amabos want to discuss their past? Often they say they are looking to the future. Why
is it difficult for them to believe they can be safe in America?
2.
The refugee family, the Amabos, arrive on a plane. There is a fifth refugee on the plane, Victor, who is
anxious about getting to the front of the plane. Why?
3.
This fifth refugee makes lots of people nervous. A passenger asks to move seats. The volunteer at the
airport and the case worker are afraid. The Sudanese men who share the apartment with him leave
and do not want Him to know where to find them. What is wrong with this refugee? Why does he
make others so anxious?
4.
Why does the volunteer who meets the Amabos at the airport find their behavior odd? Why does Jared
think they aren’t related?
5.
At different times, both Mopsy and Jared wondered why God doesn’t stop the horrors that take place in
civil wars. What would you tell them?
6.
Mopsy and Jared each snoop in Mattu’s boxes. Why? What does each one find?
7.
Why has Drew Finch disappeared? Is he hiding from the situation at home or the one at church? Why
is Drew Finch hurting so much from the church theft? (Hint: Celestine says, “The loss of money hurts
the church, but the broken trust hurts you.”)
8.
Why does Jared compare himself to Brady Wall? (He has stolen a diamond from Mattu’s box, and
intends to put it back. Brady stole from the church. Brady was caught and sentenced to jail. Jared has
not been caught.)
9.
Throughout the book, many characters pray to God. Some pray even though they are unsure of God’s
existence. What are some things they pray for?
10.
Kirk Crick, the refugee aid worker, reminds Kara, “You’re the innkeeper. People stay with you
temporarily. The good deed is helping them leave.” Why does he say this?
11.
Jared explains the Holocaust to Mattu, saying many Jews were slaughtered in the 1940’s. Mattu says,
“We have those in Africa. I have been in one.” What do you think about this statement? Have you ever
thought about civil wars as Holocausts?
12.
Why do you think Alake responded to the puppy?
13.
Jared and a friend, Tay, discuss the hypocrisy of those attending church, putting up an appearance of
perfection, wanting to do good, but not really believing. Do you believe church improves people?
14.
Why did Alake want the diamonds?
15.
At the end of the book, several characters are willing to sacrifice themselves for others. Name those
characters, their sacrificial action, and the outcome
16.
How important was it for Alake to be accepted by Celestine as a daughter? How do you think this
changes Alake’s future?
Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World, by Jennifer Armstrong
ISBN# 0375810498
1. This book tells the incredible, true story of twenty-eight men who attempted to traverse the continent
of Antarctica in 1914. As you read, remember that you are reading a piece of nonfiction and look for
details that make it descriptive, informative, and suspenseful. How does the author, Jennifer
Armstrong, manage to hold your attention?
2. For what was Shackleton famous before the Endurance expedition?
3. At the beginning of the story, what is Shackleton’s goal? What kind of man is he? Highlight passages
that support your point.
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4. The ice is described as if it were a character. What effect does it have on the Endurance?
5. The crew of the Endurance was forced to make many sacrifices in order to survive. Highlight them as
you read.
6. What page does Shackleton rip out of the Bible? Why would he have wanted that page?
7. Shackleton is determined to keep his men together. Explain why.
8. What specific things do the men have to do to survive? What character traits help them survive?
9. What is the fate of the Endurance? What is the men’s reaction?
10. Describe Shackleton’s leadership ability? What kind of example does he set for his men?
11. What do you think is the worst danger that the crew experienced? Explain.
12. How do the men change as a result of their ordeal?
13. How did the crew’s experience in Antarctica prepare them for WWI?
14. What is ironic about their experience in WWI?
15. What was the goal of Shackleton’s final journey to Antarctica?
16. Explain the meaning of the song excerpt at the end of the story. How does it relate to Shackleton’s
experience?
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