Honors English II

Mr. Wastier

Hello Future Honors English II Students!

All the other teachers write a little note to their future students and I didn’t want to look like the slacker of the group so here is one for you!

Your summer reading will consist of Lord of the Flies, The Natural, One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and Slaughterhouse Five. You should be prepared to take a test over any of the four on the second/third day of school and be prepared to discuss them as well. I will tell you which one to prepare for ahead of time. You should be able to talk about the characters, plot, theme, setting, etc. and how they all lend to the literary merit of the novel. I have included a list of literary elements to refer to while reading and taking notes. You don’t necessarily need to take notes over every literary element, but use them more as a guideline to help you.

Successful students are those who are both active readers and note-takers. In preparation for class next fall, begin with either a large spiral ring notebook or a three ring binder that can be expanded as needed. This notebook will provide journaling space as well as note space for reading and class discussions. The notes you begin this summer will be continued through the school year. In the journal/notebook keep a daily log as the reading is completed. Date the entry, record the number of pages read, and briefly sketch the plot development. Keep an on-going description of the main characters. Use the list of literary elements to help you along with your notes. Make sure to include your personal reactions to each entry. The more extensive the notebook is the better off you are. Your summer journal will be one of the first grades for the first nine weeks.

As you have already learned from Mrs. Colangeli, we will be focusing on literature, composition, and vocabulary. You will be required to conduct an extensive research project, give detailed presentations over a variety of topics, and write both poetry and prose. We will also read The Tragedy of Julius Caesar and Antigone, as well as a variety of short stories, essays, and poetry selections.

Again, you already know what the grading scale is and you know that you need to maintain a B average to remain in Honors English. Don’t be overwhelmed by any of this stuff. I am sure that you are all more than capable, and I am looking forward to working with you next year.

Sincerely,

Steve Wastier

Literary Elements