Independent+Reading

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Quarter Four Independent Reading: Novel study
Many of you have been asking valid questions about the novel study. The purpose of this page is to answer those questions and give you some additional information to help you as you work.

Deadlines
All your work must be handed in by **Monday May 24th. 10a.m**., whether or not you have class with me that day. You must submit: a) A color hard copy of your book cover b) A hard copy of your book report c) Rubrics for both the report and cover

If you have lost the rubric I gave you, please print it off from the bottom of the page.

Models
Use the models and the annotations on them to help you. Some things you might notice are:
 * You should use a more informal tone than when writing essays: use of the first person is acceptable, as is more vivid and descriptive language;
 * You don't have to use quotations, unless you want to talk about a particular image or metaphor or other style point in detail;
 * Your opening should identify the book title, author, and genre of the book (but not in a boring way!);
 * Your report should include a brief chronological plot summary - but no spoilers! (that means don't give away any of the book's surprises);
 * Your report should include a paragraph on the setting and characters'
 * Your report should include some comments on the writer's style and technique;
 * Your report should conclude with an opinion of the book and usually a recommendation for other readers.

Style Points

 * Always underline the title of the book
 * Try to use interesting adjectives and phrases. Here is a list to help you, organized by near synonyms so that you can vary your vocabulary: authentic/ true-to-life, action-packed/ 'not a dull moment'/adventure-filled, comic/ hilarious/humorous/witty, suspenseful/tense/mysterious/engrossing, tragic/moving/ heart-breaking.
 * Try to give reasons for the opinions you express. For example, don't say //'The book is interesting',// say //'The book is interesting because of the way it combines real life and fantasy.'// Don't say '//I liked the characters', say 'I liked the characters because they are amusing and unusual'.//

Rubrics
The rubrics are always the best place to find out what to include and make sure you do well. If you have read the rubrics carefully, you will already know that:

Here are the rubrics again in case you need them:
 * To do well you must analyze, not only describe, the book's plot structure, style, setting and characters;
 * You must reflect on the book giving detailed explanations for your opinions;
 * You shouldn't be afraid to be critical; write about what you don't like as well as what you do;
 * The book cover should appeal to teens and include all kinds of very specific information.

FAQs (Frequently asked questions)
Q: If I'm good at art, can I draw the book cover by hand instead of using a computer programme? A: Yes, as long as it meets the criteria on the rubric.

Q: What is a blurb? A: A blurb is the description on the back of a book which makes people want to buy it. It should be short and persuasive. Look at the backs of some books in the library for ideas if you need to.

Q: It says complete worksheet on here, what worksheet is that? A: There is no worksheet, Ms Kemsley made a mistake, so sorry.

Q: Can the cover be A4 size? A: Yes, any size is fine

Q: If the cover is front and back can we print it on A4 and fold it? A: Yes

Q: Do you have to write the book report in a positive light? A: No! Be honest. But do give good reasons for your opinions.

Q: Do I really have to do all the art work originally? A: Yes you do! Take photographs, make a collage, draw stuff and scan it in - you really need to be creative here

Q: Can I not have more then 800 words?

Q: Will you deduct points if I have more than 800 words?

Q: Do we need to underline the book name if it is included in the title?(ex. Of Mice and Men, by John Steinbeck)

Q: Can we use images from the internet for the book cover?(I remember that you mentioned in class to cross out the "You may not cut and paste from other sources" line on the book cover rubric, but by doing so would contradict your answer for the question above "Do I really have to do all the art work originally?")

Q: Can the book cover have an informal/cartoony style?

Q: Should the plot or the opinion be longer? On the examples the plot of the stories were much longer than the opinion, but the rubric seems to put a greater emphasis on the opinion.

Q: Why isn't Ms Kemsley replying to our questions?

Any more questions? Post them here and I will answer them.