Class Activities

Read the following list of questions. (Thanks to Lindsey, who created this list. I just put the questions in categories and added several.)  You will find your assignment at the bottom of this entry.

Required:
What is the title of your book?
Who is the author?
What is the genre of your book?  (If it’s fiction, be specific about what kind of fiction.)
Why did you choose this book?

Characters:
Who are the main characters in your book?
Who is your favorite character? 
What are some of this character’s traits and what is your evidence from the story?
How are you similar or different from this character?

Setting:
What is the setting of this story (when and where does it take place)?
How does the setting affect the characters or the problem?

Plot: 
What is the problem in the story?
How do you think the problem can be solved?
If the problem were never solved, would it lead to a bigger problem?

Author:
What was the author’s purpose?
Do you think that the author did a good job writing this book?
What did you notice about the author’s style of writing?
Have you read any of this author’s other books? Which ones?
Has this book convinced you to read any other books by this author?

Nonfiction:
What is the topic of your book?
Why did you choose this book?
What are some of the new things you learned about this topic as you read this book?  (Write about 4 or 5 things you learned.  Use your own words.)
Do you want to read another book on this topic or do you plan to read about a different topic next?  What do you think it will be?

Your Assignment:
1. Choose one category (characters, setting, plot, or author) in addition to the required questions.  Think about the questions you have chosen as you read today.
2. Read.  As you read, think about what you notice that will answer the questions you have chosen.  Get a sticky note to jot down what you notice as you read or page numbers to go back and reread when you are writing.
3. Open Word.  Write a response about what you read.  In your first paragragh write about the required questions.  Start a new paragraph to write about the other category that you selected today.  Remember to elaborate!  Your goal is not just to answer the questions, but to write good paragraphs that show what you are thinking.  Use your best writing skills.  Remember that you are writing for a real audience.
4.  Reread what you wrote several times.  Then use Ultra Hal Reader to reread it again.  Ask a friend to peer edit for you.
5.  When you are satisfied that this reading response is your best work, post it on your own blog.
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