English IH Summer Reading Project
Select and read a book from the following list. While the list contains both nonfiction
and historical fiction, all portray World War II events and perspectives. The purpose is
to examine a variety of perspectives of that historical time period. This project and
class discussion the first week of school will lead us into our first unit of the year which
will include historical fiction, nonfiction, and research-based writing. All books can be
purchased (Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, etc.) or borrowed through the school or
public library.
I suggest tackling this project early, so you can enjoy the summer. Procrastinating until
the last week of break will likely result in decreased quality of work and unnecessary
stress. The project requirements are listed below, but if you have any questions, you
may email me ([email protected]). If you do not to complete this project
before​
the first day of school, you will receive a zero for any absent portions and
partial credit for any incomplete or poor quality portions. Projects are due on the first
day of school. Late projects ​
will not​
be accepted. The nature of this project makes
plagiarism quite difficult; however, turning in any portion that is not your own,
original work will earn you a zero.
Book Options:
Code Name Verity​
by Elizabeth E. Wein
Flygirl​
by Sherri L. Smith
Life in a Jar: The Irena Sendler Project​
by Jack Mayer
Between Shades of Gray​
by Ruta Sepetys
​
Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two
by Joseph Bruchac
Bomb: ​
The Race to Build--and Steal--the World's Most Dangerous Weapon
by Steve Sheinkin
The Book Thief​
by Marcus Zusak
​
Imprisoned: ​
the Betrayal of Japanese Americans during World War II
by Martin W. Sandler
Project Requirements:
You will need to purchase a 5-subject notebook or 3-ring binder with 5 divider tabs,
and complete all parts of the project in the first section. You will continue using this
notebook throughout the school year.
Part 1: reading reflections: ​
While reading, complete a minimum of eight reflections.
You must use each type of reflection at least once, but you are not required to respond
to all of the suggested questions below each heading. Reflections must include the date
you read, pages read, type of reflection, and thorough reflection.
Think as a reader:
What parts or aspects of the book confuse you while you’re reading? What
literary devices are used? Quote passages from the book and identify the
literary devices being used. What questions do you have while reading? Explain
what you want to remember about this book and why. Make a list of “lingering
questions” or discussion topics that can be used in August.
Think as a writer:
Do you notice a passage or line you think the author crafted particularly well?
Copy it down and reflect on why you like it or why it stands out to you as quality
writing. Are you wondering why the author chose to make decisions regarding
the plot? Write what you notice or admire or dislike. What things might you try
to do in your own writing that you learned from this author?
Think as a human being:
What are you learning from this book about World War II? What is something
particularly meaningful in the book? Why? Were there any concepts or details
you hate? Examine human relationships in the story. Make connections to real
life, other books/media, and yourself or people you know.
Part 2: vocabulary: ​
While reading, locate at least ten unknown words. These can
include proper nouns. Complete the following for each. This should follow your
reading reflections in your notebook. Complete the following for each new word.
1. word and page number where located
2. sentence (or portion) in which word is used in the book
3. definition of the word (as it’s used in the sentence)
4. an original sentence of your own the demonstrates the word’s meaning
Part 3: creative portion:​
Select one of the following creative projects to showcase your
understanding of the book. This should follow your vocabulary in section one of your
notebook.
Artwork:
Create a piece of artwork (drawing, map, painting, illustration, sculpture, etc.)
that represents a character, theme, conflict, or other important aspect of the
book. This may not fit in your notebook, which is fine. However, in your
notebook, write at least one thorough paragraph explaining the subject of your
artwork, why you chose it, how it relates to the book, and/or anything else
relating to your creation that demonstrates your understanding and analysis of
the book. Some artwork may not fit into the notebook, which is fine, but please
include the written portion in the notebook.
Poetry:
Showcase your understanding of the book’s plot, historical context, and/or any
other literary concepts through original poetry. You may choose any form of
poetry and/or write a series of poems. Each should have a title. This portion
must include at least 50 ​
quality​
lines of poetry. Make sure you maximize the
words’ meanings on each line, and incorporate sensory details, figurative
language, and literary analysis when possible.
Journal Entries:
Assume the perspective of one of the book’s characters and write at least 6
journal or diary entries for him or her. Label the character’s name at the
beginning, and provide a rational date for each entry. Entries should showcase
your understanding of the character, plot, conflicts, and historical context.
Culinary Connection:
Find a recipe of something that would have been eaten at this time period in the
book’s setting and in the characters’ culture. Bake or cook the food item. Record
your experience by including the following in your notebook: the recipe (with
step-by-step directions), at least one photograph of you with the food/your
cooking process, and at least a paragraph detailing your experience and how it
furthers your understanding of the characters’ lives or cultures.
Part 4: in-class portion: ​
When school starts in August, there will be some in-class
activities in which you will work individually and in small groups to present your book
and project to the rest of the class. More information will be given the first week of
school.
Have a wonderful summer break, and I look forward to meeting each of you!
Mrs. Keeth
[email protected]