Latest Lists

do i have to read the books listed on the summer reading list?

okay so i am an incoming 9th grader and i heard that during the summer the high school will send a summer reading list to any incoming freshman that signed up for language arts honors . i wondering do i have to read the book listed? is it required? what happens if i dont? and what to expect when i enter 9th grade?(how hard the work is going to be stuff like that) thx! =]

Public Comments

1. When they send you the list, they will tell you if these are required readings, or if they are just suggested. I have to say, though, that if you want to be in honors, you can expect to have to do a fair amount of work, and if you don't do it, you will a) not do very well in your classes, and b) get knocked down to a lower level of courses.
2. Well it varies by teacher to teacher. Some wont spend any time at all on it others will. I would suggest reading it reason being even if he/she doesn't use it in their class they wiill still like the effort that you displayed. Teachers tend to classify students and if you can get on their good side early on they will cut you some slack making it easier for you and making the transition into high school easier.
3. Yes you have to read the books. Usually all English Honors and AP classes have summer reading which are about 3 books and you should expect to take an exam based on those books within the quarter that will really have a big part on your grade. I have taken AP and Honors classes since my freshman year but it is worth it when you start thinking about college. so you made a good choice :)
4. It's probably not going to be "required". However, you're taking an honors course so this means that they will expect a higher level of work and knowledge out of you. These suggested books will probably emphasis some themes and ideas that you will be discussing with other assignments throughout the actual school year. The suggested reading is also a way for you to improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills. Teachers also don't want you to completely turn your brains off during the summer. Nothing will probably happen if you don't do the reading and I doubt that you have to read every book on the list. But, it's a good idea to read a few of them .
5. I would say from experience that when it says "reading list" It would be a good idea to read it, but I have been through all of that and I understand how hard it is to decide to read a book instead of going swimming. You need to expect to take a test over the book, but the internet has awesome sites, Sparknotes, Pink Monkey, and my personal favorite, "Gradesaver.com" that will give amazingly thorough summaries of each book that may not give you a 100 on the test, but you can normally expect 85+.