Independent Reading Project
Due: November 30, 2009, 3:00 p.m.
Each nine weeks, sixth graders will have a different independent reading
project. Each assignment will have a different focus and will come from a
list of recommended books. Students may read books other than those on the
list below; however, all books must be approved by the teacher!! Before the
beginning of each assignment period, students will be informed of the
requirements for that quarter’s assignment. Reports or projects will be
assigned for all books.
Note: All books read must have a reading level of 5.0 grade equivalent or
higher. The books on the list provided are approved, and it is not necessary
to look up the reading level. If the student wishes to substitute a title
and the book is not labeled with a reading level, the teacher will look up
the reading level for the student using www.renlearn.com. If a student
reads a book that has not been approved by the teacher, that student will
receive a 0 for the assignment. It is also not acceptable for a student to
read a book that he or she has read before. Students should choose new
books. Great Illustrated Classics will not be accepted for independent
reading.
Upon completion of the book, each student will be asked to complete a
project over the book her or she chose. The project options for the first
nine weeks are listed below. The project will count as a test grade. This
project will assess the student’s understanding of the novel.
Parents: Most of the books on the provided list are Newbery Award winners or
Newbery Honor books. This designation means that these books have been
judged to be among the best of adolescent literature in the year of their
publication. Please remember that as students get older, the literature
begins to cover more difficult and controversial topics. Please help your
child choose appropriate books that will interest and challenge him or her.
I encourage each parent to be aware of what his or her child is reading--
both the reading done for school and the reading done for pleasure.
Discussions about books can provide a wonderful opportunity to discuss your
own values and ideas with your child.
Project Options
1. Map
If the book you read involves a number of locations within a town, country,
or geographical area, create a map. First make a list of all the locations –
houses, stores, streets, parks, lakes, etc. mentioned in your book’s
setting. Then, draw the map showing a bird’s eye view of the locations.
Label each location and create a legend. Your map should include at least
six locations important to the story. On a separate sheet of paper, list all
the locations and a paragraph for each location detailing the important
events that occur at each. Make sure your map has lots of details, is
colorful, and large enough to be seen clearly. All writing should be typed.
2. Model of the setting
If the story is set primarily in one place, create a model of the setting.
Create your model in a large box or on a piece of cardboard. Be sure to make
it as realistic as possible. Include lots of details in your model which
demonstrate events that occur in the novel you read. You may also want to
include characters from your novel on the model you create. Label the parts
of the setting. On a piece of paper, include a description of the setting
and its significance to the rest of the story. Explain why the story could
not have taken place anywhere else and been as effective. This must be typed
and at least one page in length.
Historical Fiction: A historical fiction novel is one set among actual
events or a specific period of history. The books on the list below have
been approved and may be read without teacher approval but still require
parent signature.
Bread and Roses, Too Katherine Patterson
Code Talkers Joseph Bruchac
The Watsons Go to Birmingham Christopher Paul Curtis
Roll of Thunder, Hear my Cry Mildred D. Taylor
The Witch of Blackbird Pond Elizabeth George Speare
Bud, Not Buddy Christopher Paul Curtis
Caddie Woodlawn Carol Ryrie Brink
Feathers Jacqueline Woodson
Penny from Heaven Jennifer L. Holm
Hattie Big Sky Kirby Larson
Elijah of Buxton Christopher Paul Curtis
Kira Kira Cynthia Kadohata
Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy Gary D Schmidt
Crispin: The Cross of Lead Avi
A Single Shard Linda Sue Park
A Year Down Yonder Richard Peck
Our Only May Amelia Jennifer L. Holm
A Long Way from Chicago Richard Peck
If you have any questions about this assignment, please contact me. I will
be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Please detach the signature section below and return it to me by Tuesday,
October 20, 2009.
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_______ I have helped my child choose a book for this nine weeks’
independent book project. My child and I are both aware of the requirements
for completion of the project. We understand that the completed project is
due on Monday, November 30, 2009 by 3:00 p.m.
Late projects will not be accepted and the student will receive a 0 for the
assignment. In the event of prolonged illness or family emergency, the
parent should contact the teacher to determine if an extension is
appropriate.
Student Name: ________________________________________________________
Title of novel chosen: __________________________________________________
Parent Signature: ______________________________________________________
