Grade 6 Summer Reader Project

June 2010 Grade 6 Summer Reader Project

Dear Parents and Students:

Once again it is time to begin thinking about the Summer Reading program at the Junior High. This nonfiction book, based on a true story, is an interesting, informational, and touching account of the Holocaust through one child’s eyes. The subplot of the story involves a museum director in Tokyo who learns about this child in an effort to teach others about history. We are sure you will enjoy reading it. In addition to reading Hana’s Suitcase, students will be asked to complete a study worksheet. The activity includes a short vocabulary section as well as five essay questions. Please encourage students to write all answers to the vocabulary and essay questions on a separate sheet of paper. By doing this, students will review what they have read throughout the summer. We will also be able to view a sample of students’ writing during the first week of school. Students are encouraged to submit their study worksheets to their English teachers on the first day of school. However, the final due date is Friday, September 3, 2010. The summer reading work will count as the first English test of the 2010-2011 school year. Summer reading is a great way for students to maintain their learning over the summer months. Studies have shown that students who do not read over the break may actually lose some of the reading skills that they have mastered in the previous year. If you encounter any difficulties while working through your summer reading, please contact the school and leave a message for Mrs. Smith. She will do her best to get to you within a week’s time. The summer reading book is available in paperback, and the title has been sent to local book stores. Additionally, the book is easily available online.

Sincerest wishes for an enjoyable summer,

Case Jr. High sixth grade teachers

P.S. This packet will also be available for reprinting from the English Department E- Board by typing http://tinyurl.com/jrhighela or navigating to the Jr. High E-Board from the district or school web pages. Hana’s Suitcase by Karen Levine

Directions: Write the definition and part/s of speech of the following words. You may use a dictionary or the book, Hana’s Suitcase, to complete this activity. despondent: dejected: refugee: optimism:

Holocaust:

Directions: Answer the following questions to the best of your ability. Use support from the text and be sure to explain your answers fully.

1. Describe Hana’s personality, likes, dislikes, and interests. List five character traits that come to mind when thinking of Hana.

2. What made Hana and George different from the other children in their community?

3. On page 25, in order to comfort Hana, George encourages her to list all of the “things they missed, lists of things they were angry about. They made lists of all the things they would do, all the things they would have, and all the places they would go when these dark times were over.” Explain George’s motivation for this. (Why does he tell Hana to make these lists)?

4. Why was it important for Fumiko to learn more about Hana?

5. George states on page 105 that Hana’s dream had come true. What “dream” is he talking about, and how had this been accomplished?