Summer Reading
23 May 2013
To: |
Parents of Cistercian Students |
From: |
Gary M. Nied Chairman, Department of English |
Re: |
Summer Reading and Enrichment |
Dear Parents,
Each form is given a Summer Reading Assignment, compliments of the English Department. Hopefully the English teacher has had a chance to explain the assignment to the upcoming class, but if not, all assignments are posted online at www.cistercian.org. The idea behind the summer assignment is not to extend the school year into double overtime (or extra innings if you prefer a baseball analogy), but to encourage your sons to become readers, those who find pleasure and reward in reading good books independently. The required reading assignment usually involves some writing activity or follow-up quiz as well, so be sure to read all instructions carefully. Unless otherwise indicated, any published edition of the required text will do. Note that most teachers like the students to have their copy of the book with them for the beginning of the school year.
In addition to the required reading assignment, some English teachers may also offer an optional Enrichment Assignment for some form of credit. Although these assignments are purely optional, I hope that many will take advantage of the opportunity. Note that the optional Enrichment Assignment sometimes draws upon the Recommended Reading List, which I describe below.
The Recommended Reading List. A recently revised and expanded list created by the Cistercian faculty. Cistercian’s recommended reading list is meant to suggest excellent books that, according to our personal reading experience and best judgment, would be great for your son to read on his own. The list includes both fiction and non-fiction books including works on religion, history, math, and science. The books are selected according to their stylistic merit, rich content, and age appropriate content. There are some real gems on the list.
Summer is a great time to recharge the batteries and engage in refreshing, fun activities. Encourage your sons to get outside, be physically active, and try new things. In addition, it would be wonderful if they would spend some of their leisure time reading and perhaps even writing. Submissions to our Cistercian Literary Competition are due in mid-January and before that there is the Inspirations contest sponsored by our award-winning literary journal Reflections.
In closing, I think I speak for all Cistercian faculty, when I say, we at Cistercian feel very privileged to teach such talented students. Their imagination, wit, and curiosity inspire us on a daily basis. Let us continue to work together to foster thoughtful young men who seek discipline, wisdom, and the joy of the Lord. May you all have a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer!
Should you have any questions about the summer reading program, please call the school, 469-499-5400. The receptionist will put you in touch with your son's teacher or me.
Sincerely,
Gary Nied
Required Reading for 2013-14:
Recommended Reading: