AP Language and Composition Summer Reading
The Grapes of Wrath is John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel about the westward migration of
farm families displaced due to the dust storms of the 1930’s. This novel is considered the tenth best
novel of all time by the Modern Library Association. The novel follows the Joad family as they are forced
to leave their farm in Oklahoma and go west to California in order to find work. Please do not use Spark
Notes as a reference in completing the following assignments, for you will be required to write an essay
as well as complete a discussion-based test after break.
1. Research the Great Depression and the dust storms of the 1930’s. Write a one-page summary of
your research.
2. The book is structured using two types of chapters. The book has plot chapters that follow the
Joad family from Oklahoma to California. In between these plot chapters are “intercalary
chapters.” Identify the purpose of each intercalary chapter, and identify the rhetorical strategies
you find. Create a chart or diagram for each of these chapters.
3. Draw a picture of the events of Chapter 5.
4. In an essay, compare and contrast Tom Joad and his father. What are their differences and
similarities? Why do you think Tom is so different?
5. Create a time line analyzing Tom Joad’s growth throughout the novel.
Do not wait until the last few days before school to begin reading the novel. The novel is over 400 pages
and you will not be able to appreciate it, nor will you be able to complete the assignments adequately. I
am looking forward to having you in AP Language and Composition.