Glen Ridge High School

200 Ridgewood Avenue

Glen Ridge, NJ 07028

June 2012

Dear 8th grade English student,

The English department at Glen Ridge High School believes that summer reading is the best way for a student to continue the learning process, make transitions to new classes, and improve standardized test scores. Therefore, you will be required to read the novel, The Contender by Robert Lipsyte. While reading, you will be required to complete the summer reading worksheet. This worksheet will be collect on the first day of class in September, and subsequently, you will be given an assessment related to your summer reading assignment. In addition, the packet includes a list of relevant vocabulary that is necessary background knowledge and will also be included in your assessment.

While reading this literary piece, please keep in mind any patterns, symbols, or themes you find prevalent. We will discuss the novel in some depth, and you are expected to enter class in September with a comfortable understanding of the story. It would be helpful to take notes in addition to the worksheet you will complete. The notes you take will allow you to participate more fully in our class discussions upon returning to school and will add to your critical reading experience.

You are required to acquire The Contender on your own. On Move-Up Day, you will receive a copy of the mandatory summer reading worksheet that you are to complete this summer. If needed, the packet will also be posed on your 8th grade English teacher’s web site. In addition to the worksheet, a packet of study guide questions will also be made available to any student who wishes extra reinforcement while reading the novel. These study guide questions are optional and will be available on your English teacher’s web site.

Additionally, we would encourage you to read other books of interest to you in other subjects this summer. A suggested reading list can be provided to you for a number of subjects.

Enjoy the summer and your reading assignments! We will see you in September!

Sincerely,

The English Department

Glen Ridge High School