A.P. English Literature and Composition and English IV Honors Instructor: R. Mitchell

Preferred email:

Stockbridge High School

2014 Summer Preparation for Learning

Texts: Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison (June) – (not The Invisible Man by H.G. Wells)

1984 by George Orwell (July)

Background: Before reading each novel, you should briefly research the author, his background, and the novel’s literary period. Once you have finished each work, read one or two critical essays written about it, preferably with contrasting viewpoints or varied interpretations. You may find these essays in MLA Bibliography, at a university library, or on valid Internet sites. In addition, you should identify and trace themes, motifs, and literary devices employed within these novels, recording all of this information on loose-leaf notebook paper or note cards.

While reading this summer, if at any time you have questions or concerns regarding the reading or assignments, please do not hesitate to email me at (preferred) or (please put AP or Honors and your name in the subject line). Be aware that many personal emails to the school account will go to the junk folder, which I do not check very often). Also, don’t hesitate to discuss the novels with anyone else who has read them, as this will assist you in understanding and retaining the concepts.

The complete assignment is worth 200 points, which counts for two test grades (100 points each). It will be extremely difficult for you to pass first semester if you do not read the novels. Plus, you will have to read the novels at the start of school (along with all of your other classes’ assigned work) because they comprise the basis for the majority of our first term assignments, including the research paper for first semester.

Assignments:

Background Research: For EACH novel, record the information requested below on your own loose-leaf notebook paper or note cards. You must handwrite this information – typed information will receive no credit. The information for both novels are due at the beginning of class the first day of school (45 points per novel = 90 points total). It is not appropriate to use essays on “student help” or cheat websites for any research assignment.

-  List ten biographical facts about each author along with a brief explanation as to how each fact relates to some particular incident, idea, or character in the novel.

-  Name and provide the significance of three major symbols and two allusions within each novel.

-  Copy two meaningful quotes from each novel and explain the meaning and significance of each.

-  Complete a Works Cited page or source note cards for your primary (Invisible Man and 1984) and secondary (outside research) sources. If you are uncertain how to cite sources, please refer to http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/01/ or email me with questions (the address is above).

-  Name and describe a minimum of five major characters from each novel. Include the type of character (flat, static, dynamic, round) and any archetypal associations that belong to the character.

-  Create a graphic novel-style illustration with at least five frames that depicts your favorite scene from each novel. Be sure to include dialogue and a caption for each frame. Stick figures are acceptable, but do not use computer graphics and make everything neat and precise.

Summer Reading Test: This will cover all aspects of the novels, including characters, themes, symbolism, allusions, the authors, backgrounds, etc. Be prepared (i.e., complete the background research)! The format will be term, character, and quote identification, and short answer responses (90 points).

College Entrance Essays: During the summer, prepare your one choice of the typical college essays below, handwritten or typed (20 points). We will revise this essay during the school year in order to perfect it (due the first day of school). The University of Georgia’s website has a section devoted to tips on these essays.

1. If you were in a position to ask a provocative and revealing question of college applicants, what would that question be? Now that you have asked your ideal question, answer it. (Vanderbilt)

2. Evaluate a significant experience or achievement that has special meaning to you. (Rhodes)

3. The youth of the 1970’s were frequently described as the “me generation.” How would you describe your generation? (Dickinson)

4. Write a brief essay of 200-500 words on any topic: your family, friends, or another person who has had an impact on you; unusual circumstances in your life; the best or worst features of your secondary school; a recent development in your community; travel or living experiences abroad; a discussion of ethical issues which interest you or pose a challenge to you. Any subject of direct personal importance to you is a good choice. (Harvard-Radcliffe)