Dear Class of 2027,
Before the fun actually begins in August, I would like for you to read The Giver by Lois Lowry. The Giver is set in a society which is at first presented as a utopian society and gradually appears more and more dystopian. The novel follows a boy named Jonas through the twelfth year of his life in a society that has eliminated pain and strife by converting to "Sameness”.
You should have the book read by the first day of school. If you need to borrow a copy of the book, see me before May 26. Assignments centered around the book will be given the first few weeks of school, so it will be obvious if you did not read the book. You will be expected to discuss, summarize, and analyze the book, and both formative and summative grades will eventually be earned.
While you are reading, you are required to mark in your book or on sticky notes. For each chapter, list 3 to 5 bullet points of central ideas from the chapter. Basically, what happened? Also, label the following: conflict, setting, flashback, irony, theme, symbolism, important words, and words you do not know. I should be able to see your thoughts as you read. This is worth 23 points, 2 points per chapter.
Please bring your book with you the first day of school. I am excited to be your teacher next year! If you have questions over the summer, you can email me at bmorse@fairbankspanthers.org. Enjoy your summer and happy reading!
Sincerely, Mrs. Morse