Summer Reading 2025 – Grade 8
Each student is required to read one of the books and to complete one of the following projects. This project is due no later than Tuesday, September 9th.
Book Choices
The Devil’s Arithmetic by Jane Yolen
Or
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Newspaper Page
Students will create the front page of a newspaper that tells about the events of the story. Students must briefly summarize the story in one article, do an interview with one of the characters in another, and write an editorial (letter to the editor) in support of making this story into a movie. The newspaper must have a name. It should include clip art or illustrations that are related to the story. (If student prefer, they may use the template of the front page of the newspaper that I have attached to create their project. This may be helpful for those who do not have access to a chrome book or laptop at home.)
Diary
Students will create a diary that one of the main characters may have kept either before, during, or after the book’s events. Remember, a character’s thoughts and feelings are very important in a diary. However, the entries must share details about the story that will prove that the student has read the book. The diary must have a cover and at least 5 entries.
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During the first trimester, we will be reading The Outsiders in class. Students are required to purchase the book over the summer. Since we will begin reading this book during the first full week of school, they must bring the book with them when they return to school in September.
Summer Grammar Assignment
Knowing the basics of grammar is an essential key to becoming a proficient writer. Without a clear understanding of word usage, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization, writing becomes a difficult task. In order to continue strengthening your grammar skills, this year, you will be completing a summer grammar assignment.
Complete the Simple Solutions lessons that are provided in this packet. You should be familiar with most of the concepts that are presented in these lessons. Please refer to the Help pages in the back of the book for helpful hints and explanations to help you with the grammar questions.
Please bring this packet with you when you return to school. The due date is no later than Tuesday, September 9th. We will begin reviewing these lessons during our first full week of school.