Independent Reading Overview

Independent Reading Overview

This year, in addition to the books, plays and stories we’ll be reading as a class, you will be required to read at least 5 books independently. These will be books of your choosing, each a minimum of 150 pages in length. These books can be either fiction or nonfiction. Of these five books, you must read one of each of the following:

• A classic novel
• A nonfiction book

Please check with me before you begin reading your classic and nonfiction books so I know what you’ve chosen. Students can also choose a maximum of one graphic novel as part of the independent reading options.

For each book you will hand in a 1 page, typed review. Each successfully completed review will be put into our Independent Reading Binder, used as a resource to help other students to choose books that might be a good fit for them. The review must include the following:

• Title & Format: Include he book’s title and the author’s name (Last name, First name) in the left hand corner and the genre in the right hand corner (Fiction, Nonfiction, Science Fiction, Historical Fiction, Graphic Novel, etc). Write your name underneath the book title and author.
• Context: The first step is to give the reader of your review background information. In one paragraph, include the basic background information. What kind of book is it? Does it take place in a particular time in history? Is it part of a series? Think of any information the reader of your review needs to know in order to understand it. (4-5 sentences)
• Overview: In this paragraph present an overview of the book, giving the reader a taste of what the book is about without revealing too many significant plot points. (8-10 sentences)
• Review: Include a detailed paragraph giving your review. What were the most interesting aspects of the book? What moments stood out to you? What struggles did you face in reading the book? (8-10 sentences)
• Recommendation: A shorter paragraph explaining who might like this book. Think particularly about other books that are in some way similar. If you liked ___________, you might love __________. (5-6 sentences)

Important Dates

January 10: 1^st book review submitted

February 18: 2^nd book review submitted

March 24: 3^rd book review submitted

April 22: 4^th book review submitted

June 1: 5^th book review submitted

**Any reviews beyond 5 successfully completed and turned in will count as bonus points toward your effort mark**