THE READING LOG

American Literature/Paul Kandell

Voice mail 329-3837 pbkandell@hotmail.com

1. The reading log is the central component of this class. It gives you the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and reflection of your reading in the following ways:

• by responding to a passage you think is significant;

• by developing a theme, character or symbol, or by commenting on the language or style of the literature;

• by recording questions and confusions AND providing possible answers;

• by translating literary into personal experience;

• by speculating about what might happen and why;

• by relating the immediate reading to other books, ideas, or authors.

2. Your reading logs will be due on specific dates (SEE ASSlGNMENT SHEET) and will be on specific pages.

3. The reading logs will be graded individually on subjective standards such as depth, "engagement," and completion. I will make comments on the logs, which typically are a grade raiser because substance is a bit more important than form and mechanics. In addition, you have total control of the content.

4. Because the reading log entries often serve as the basis for classroom work and discussion, THEY MUST BE COMPLETED ON TIME. They will be graded and returned prior to when the next log is due.

5. The logs may be the basis or starting point far small group or class discussions, so you may be asked to share your writing. If you write personal or confidential material, you should have separate notes to share in the class.

6. Each reading log should be AT LEAST ONE TYPED, DOUBLE-SPACED PAGE. It takes a minimum of a page to become engaged in the literature. That is a bare minimum however, likely worth a C at best. Two pages is a normal length, three pages the maximum.

7. Reading logs are NOT SUMMARIES; they are reflections. I have read each book, and even have notes on them. Even a minuscule summarial approach will smudge the grade.

8. Use the logs as writing resources. Recording page numbers and quotations will be most useful and save you considerable time when it comes to writing the formal essays.

9. The reading log is a chance for you to practice the writing craft and respond to literature frequently and informally. Use it to your advantage.