The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Summer Reading & Class Discussion
What to read:
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The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne |
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The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain |
Even if you have read one or both of these novels before, you need to read them again. These novels are great works of literature that provide opportunities for insight every time you read them.
Where to get a copy
: You may obtain your own copy in a local bookstore—here the advantage is that you can highlight key passages and write notes in the margin. Once the semester begins, you will be issued a copy by your teacher at least two weeks before we begin discussion of the novel in class.
When the assignment is due: The cards for each novel will be graded a few days before we begin class discussion on the book. You will be reminded at least two weeks before the due date, so that you can review your notes and the book for class discussion and activities.
What to do: As you read each novel, complete notes to use for class discussion and assignments. Use 4" by 6" index cards and follow the directions below.
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Setting: describe each main setting in which significant action takes place and record your impressions on how the setting affects the characters’ behavior or determines their options. Use one card for each main setting location. You should have at least three cards on setting per novel. | ||||
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Main characters: do at least one card for each main character, making note of significant details involving the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the character.
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Minor characters: identify several significant minor characters, listing important detail on how each affects/relates to any of the main characters. Have at least one card on minor characters per novel. | ||||
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Plot: make notes about the plot by summarizing of each chapter in your own words. You may group chapters together, but you should end up with at least four cards of plot summary per novel. | ||||
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Themes: make notes on major concepts in each novel. Examine the main issues that the main characters face, and make a card for each topic. You should have at least three cards on theme for each novel. Examples of themes:
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Symbolism: for The Scarlet Letter, make one or more cards on main symbols in the story. | ||||
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Social issues: for The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, make one or more cards of notes on social issues (such as racism) in the story. |
What not to do: You may be tempted to watch movies based on these novels. Keep in mind that there are no movies that are commercially available that are consistent in presenting the events, characters, and themes of these novels. If you really want to watch one of the movies available, read the book first!
