Reading and Writing

If you want to read a book independently, this assignment is for you!

First Steps

This module can be completed independently over both fiction and nonfiction titles; here's what it looks like:

  • You choose a book you want to read and get it approved by Taylor.

Books: Choose Wisely

You’ll receive between 10 and 30 points for reading the book itself, based on a combination of the book’s length and its Lexile score (complexity of writing).

  • Page length:

    • < 200 pages: +5 points

    • 201 – 349: +10 points

    • > 350 pages: +15 points

  • Lexile score:

    • < 745 Lexile score: +5 points

    • 750 – 995 Lexile score: +10 points

    • > 1000 Lexile score: +15 points

The Work

  • Complete analysis work in Google Classroom during and after reading.

    • Step 1: Character Inventory

      • Start when you have a sense of the main characters. (2 pts for first check)

      • Update your character inventory with revised impressions/info and final thoughts when you’re close to finishing the book. (1 pt for second check)

    • Step 2: Four Journal Entries

      • Aim for one entry 25% of the way through the book, one 50%, one 75%, and one when you are finished reading the book (3 pts each plus 1/4 of your reading points)

      • Be thorough with your analysis questions! Follow the outlines given in each section of the journal.

    • Step 3: Book Summary Form

      • Complete when you're done reading. (4 pts)

      • Get your essay thesis approved by Taylor before starting to write the essay.

    • Step 4: Five Paragraph Essay Outline

      • Outline your essay using the document attached in Google Classroom (3 pts)

      • Create a first draft using outline

      • Revise as needed (5 pts)

    • Step 5: Five Paragraph Essay

      • Polish and submit your final draft via the appropriate Reading and Writing Google Classroom.

​You’ll receive contract points as you complete components from this list. Now go read! :)​

C-TACHs:

  • Reading: Cite strong textual evidence to support analysis of explicit and implicit meaning of text.

  • Reading: Read and comprehend complex literature and informational text independently, accurately and for deep understanding.

  • Reading: Analyze author’s stylistic choices regarding structure and development of the elements of a story, particularly theme.

  • Writing: Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.

  • Writing: Draw evidence from literary or information texts to support analysis, reflection and research.