Required Activities
Required Activities
Embedded Files
Students will engage in two activities with their chosen book.
Firstly, they will craft a concise six-word review encapsulating the essence of the book.
Secondly, in alignment with our upcoming Marist Way theme for the 2025-2026 school year, "Faith in Contemporary Society," students will reflect on their selected book through the lens of our collective Marist charism to "analyze their own contemporary culture with Christian insight and purpose." (Standards and Expectations of a Marist Education; Standard 6: Global Dimension of Marist Education) Specifically, students should reflect on how the book addresses or illuminates the role of faith, or the challenges to faith, within the modern world. How does the book portray the interaction between faith and contemporary society? How do the characters of the book demonstrate or lack faith within their own contemporary society?
"Faith in Contemporary Society"
CORE VALUES:
Say “no” to greed, pride, and power. We are aware of the attachments and excesses of modern society and how they challenge us to bear witness to faith in God.
Display a welcoming hospitality. We welcome ALL as brothers and sisters.
Be inclusive. We connect with others who may not feel they belong. As we aim to form "good citizens" reflective of Christ's teachings, students are encouraged to explore the human condition portrayed in their book with a focus on cultivating Marist values and virtues.
Example: The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin (Viking Books for Young Readers, 2024)
Activities are due Friday, August 15, 2025. All work is submitted by Google Form.
Activity #1 Six-Word Response - Instructions and examples
Activity #2 Reflection - Additional guidance and context
Choose ONE question to answer using complete sentences and thoughts. There are no right or wrong interpretations. Submit your responses via Google Form.
How does the book depict the presence or absence of belief systems (religious or secular) within the characters' world? Provide an example from the text to support your answer.
How does the book illustrate the interaction between individual beliefs and the broader societal context? Provide an example from the text to support your answer.
To what extent does the book explore the tensions and complexities arising from the clash or coexistence of diverse belief systems within a contemporary setting? Provide an example from the text to support your answer.
“I appreciated that we were able to choose what we read this summer. Rather than requiring students to read a certain book, this assignment allowed for a more genuine expression of interest and learning. I feel that having a singular, compulsory book or story detracts from the breadth of how we explore the Marist Way and our relationship with God.”
-Student Survey Response
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