Glen
Summer 2008
Dear AP English Language Student:
I am excited that you have chosen to take this course, AP English Language and Composition. We will continue to chart new territory in the English department at the high school, as this is the third full year of the class.
Our focus during the year will be nonfiction, analysis of writing, and most importantly writing as a craft. To that end I have designed several assignments for you for the summer. First, over the course of the summer, you must read editorials and Op-Ed pieces from the New York Times. Op-Eds are not editorials written by editors of the Times. They are found on the page opposite the editorials and letters to the editor. These should not be news articles or articles that are meant only for information. You can find the articles online or perhaps at your doorstep each morning. Choose eight (8) articles, four from July and four from August, cut them out, or print them, and for each write a one paragraph response to or analysis of the opinion expressed. You may track one columnist, one emerging story, or look at various articles that catch your interest. Put these together in one neat folder to be handed in on the first day of class – no exceptions.
Your second assignment is to read Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser. Then write a two page, double spaced, reaction to this book. Do not exceed two pages. This paper must be uploaded to www.turnitin.com. The class ID is 2297154, and the class password is mrsk. Create an identity with your own email address, and keep your own password, as we will be using the service all year. The assignment must be turned in to me as well as uploaded by the first day of class – no exceptions.
Finally, read the memoir, Stand Before Your God, by Paul Watkins. This memoir will introduce our first study of rhetorical modes, narrative. Be sure to annotate as you read, either by post-its or notes in your own copy. There is no written assignment for this memoir, but you can expect to be assessed on your reading.
I’m looking forward to reading, writing and arguing with you!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Koenig
PS – I do check my email from time to time over the
summer. If you have a question, email
me, and I will answer as soon as I see it.
pkoenig@glenridge.org