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ENGLISH
9
HONORS
LIST OF REQUIRED
SUMMER READING |
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| Because reading forms the foundation for
critical thinking in all academic areas, students entering the ninth grade
Honors English program are expected to read the following works during the
summer. In September students will take an objective test on the reading.
They will also write an essay. In preparation for advanced composition
or advanced placement English in the senior year, students must demonstrate
an ability to do close reading and analysis of literary passages, a comprehensive
knowledge of grammar and usage, and an expansive vocabulary developed from
the literature. |
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| Title |
Author |
Purpose |
| The Old Man and the Sea |
Ernest Hemingway |
Identify major symbols |
| To Kill a Mockingbird |
Harper Lee |
Find comment on society |
| The House on Mango Street |
Sandra Cisneros |
Relate style to theme |
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Any additional piece of contemporary fiction--e.g.,
a work by Stephen King, John Grisham, Michael Crichton, Toni Morrison,
Amy Tan, Alice Walker, Margaret Atwood, etc.
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Although many of these authors'
works have translated well into film, the movie is never a substitute for
the book. Our interest as readers is not only in the story but in the way
that the story is told. The written word holds the key to understanding.
One more thought: Advanced Placement English students,
both past and present, recommend to those who follow
that a familiarity with the stories of Greek and Roman mythology, with the
stories and parables of the Bible, and with the legends of King Arthur and
his court provides invaluable help in recognizing and understanding literary
allusion. I recommend picking up
a paperback copy of Edith Hamilton’s Mythology; it is easy and enjoyable
and handy as a reference. |
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Click
here for further information regarding the literary works listed
above.
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