8th Grade English and Social Studies Summer Assignment 

(Click HERE for pdf version. Click HERE to go the Overlake Library Summer Reading webpage.)

Summer provides a wonderful time to read books of our own choosing, to immerse ourselves in whatever worlds or knowledge fascinates us. Additionally, as an incoming 8th grader, you will read one book from the "Required" list linked on the Library Summer Reading webpage.

Your engagement with this book/s will prepare you for topics discussed in both English and Social Studies classes. To be ready to contribute, you need to complete two separate assignments, one for English and one for Social Studies.

What should I do first?

Choose at least one book from the “required” list linked on the Library Summer Reading webpage. Be sure to pick a book (or books) that you haven’t read before!

What do I need to do for Social Studies 8?

You will complete one writing assignment for Social Studies that you print and bring to class. You will also post your responses on the Canvas assignment “Summer Reading Assignment”.

As or after you read, answer the following questions:

1. 1. Explain how this story represents the social structure of those who are in power (politically, socially, etc.) and those who don’t exercise (or have) power. Are those with power representing a positive force? Why or why not?
  2. Are the characters that suffer or are submissive in the story completely powerless in their society, or are they avoiding exercising their power for other reasons? Explain.
  3. After reading the book, decide what the main message(s) are regarding the exercise of power in a society, and what we as the readers should understand regarding a good or bad use of power over others.

What do I need to do for English 8?

You will complete a separate writing assignment for English that you print and bring to class. You will also post your responses on Canvas.

As you read, pay attention to the main character’s journey of resilience and how they face difficult challenges. W or after you read, write a brief response to each of the following questions:

1. 1. What demanding situation does the main character encounter?
  2. How does the main character respond to this demanding situation, showing resilience?
  3. Explain two outcomes as a result of his or her response to the demanding situation.

What do I need for the first day of school?

Bring your book and a printed copy of your responses for both Social Studies and English on the first day of school. Be sure to include your name and the book title and author on your documents. (It will also help if you have your laptop so you can access your responses if needed.)

Where do I find the book list?

Click HERE to go to the Required Reading Book List for your choices posted on the Library Summer Reading page! (Once the link opens, look in the tabbed box.)