Reading Guidelines

Reading and Writing Log Guideline Handout

Your log may be compiled on loose-leaf paper in a ring binder, notebook or folder. It will serve as a record of your reading and writing experiences in my class and contain informal writings, in-class writings, reader responses, journal prompts, and various writings completed during the remainder of the year. Your log may be used to generate ideas for papers, to reflect on the book you are reading, and to chart your progress as a reader and writer.

Do not be concerned with grammar and form in your log, as such a concentration can inhibit the flow of ideas. Logs will be collected, responded to and assigned a letter grade each week based on thorough and thoughtful content.

Each time a reading is assigned you will be asked to write a written response in your log.

Responses will serve as a record of your reading of a text and as a springboard for class

Participation and should be a minimum of one or two handwritten pages. Title and date each log entry. For each reading response, you will also be asked to formulate at least three questions for class participation. In addition to preparing specific questions, here are some suggestions for responding to readings:

1. Preview and paraphrase the text after each chapter you finish reading. Looking back at each chapter will help you choose an approach.

2. Relate the people, places, ideas and events to your personal experience.

3. List any words or copy passages that engage your interest or that you don't understand. Attempt to state why you are engaged or confused. Think and then write about why these particular things attracted your attention.

4. Work on figuring out the author's purpose, position,