Well, there's no homework over Halloween weekend, that is, no more than what I have already assigned. See previous blog posts.
However, I did assign a booktalk due on November 24. The students can get a good headstart on this. This is a copy of the handout I passed out today.
Mr. Cook’s Grade 7 Book Talks – Due Monday, November 24, 2008
What is a booktalk?
I like to use the analogy of a movie trailer. The purpose of a booktalk is to "sell" the book. You want to give enough of the plot to interest the listeners but you are not giving a summary of the book. You don't want to give away the important parts of the book. You certainly never want to give away the ending. You want to highlight the interesting points. You may want to read certain passages to your listeners. The main purpose of a booktalk is to grab the audience's interest and make them want to read the book.
Here is what I want in a booktalk:
1. Title of the book.
2. Name and biography of the author.
3. Genre (type) of book.
4. Where you located this book and why you chose it.
5. Brief plot summary. Describe what happened in the story. Do not reveal the ending of the book. Instead, make us want to read it!
6. Personal analysis. ( In ten sentences, tell what you thought of the book. Comment on the strengths and weaknesses, or good or bad points of this book. Tell why you would or would not recommend this book to your friend.)
You will be marked on your oral presentation for this book talk.
You may refer to your notes while talking about your book.
Please bring your book to class to be able to show your classmates.
At the end of your presentation, you will be expected to submit your written notes. This is part of your mark. Be creative! Combine the answers to items #1-4 in a creative, interesting and well written opening sentence.
Here’s how you will be assessed:
#1 - 1 point
#2 - 1 point
#3 - 1 point
#4 -1 point
#5 - 10 points
#6 - 10 points
1 point for showing your book.
5 points for creativity/neatness
