Einstein Middle School
Summer Reading Project (2016-2017)
For Students Entering Advanced English 8
Assignment DUE: Thursday, September 8, 2016
Project Requirements:
1. Select one of the books from the 2017 Evergreen Young Adult Book Award Nominees list to read during the
summer: http://www.evergreenbookaward.org/2017-nominees
2. Write a multi-paragraph essay that addresses the following prompt:
Choose a main character from the book. Which three of the Einstein P.R.I.D.E. traits (Prepared, Respect,
Integrity, Determination, Excellence) best relates to this character and why?
3. Organize your writing in proper essay format:
➢ Introduction with a hook, overview and thesis statement (1 paragraph).
Your introduction should include:
• A hook (a question, quotation, comparison or other attention getting statement that connects to
your book).
• An overview of your book (a two-sentence summary including the title, author and a brief
introduction to the characters and main conflict in the story).
• A thesis statement (a one-sentence statement to summarize the character’s three P.R.I.D.E.
traits which you will discuss in your essay).
➢ Body with specific examples and supporting details from the text (3 paragraphs).
Each body paragraph should focus on a separate trait and include:
• Topic Sentence: An introduction to the P.R.I.D.E. trait.
• Supporting detail: A brief definition of what the trait means.
• Evidence: An example from the text in the form of a direct quote. Include:
-transitional word or phrase to introduce your evidence;
-background information about the example to set up the quote;
-quotation marks around the quote;
-parenthetical page citation.
• Commentary: An explanation of how the quote shows the trait.
• Closure: A sentence to reinforce and wrap-up.
• Remember: your evidence and commentary should help show how your character
demonstrates the P.R.I.D.E. traits you’ve chosen.
➢ Conclusion to summarize and wrap up main points (1 paragraph).
Publish your essay in final draft format: typed, size 12, Times New Roman, double-spaced, with indented
paragraphs. Include a complete school heading (first and last names, subject and date).
Heading example:
Jackie Anderson
English 8 - Advanced
September 8, 2016
Assessment: Your Summer Reading Project will be assessed for final draft completion, as well as
participation in and reflection on a classroom-based discussion about your book.
Reminder: This is a mandatory assignment for entrance into Advanced English 8. Failure to successfully submit a
complete assignment by the due date may impact your standing in the class in the fall.