Incoming AP/DC English Literature & Composition (12th Grade)
AP Literature & Composition
Dual Credit Composition I & II
Summer Reading
To prepare students for the rigor of AP English Language and Composition and Dual Credit Composition I & II, all students enrolled in this course for the 2026–2027 school year are required to complete a summer reading assignment by the first week of school. This advanced course emphasizes critical reading, analytical thinking, and college-level writing. The summer reading assignment is designed to help students begin the year prepared to engage in challenging texts and thoughtful discussion.
Summer Reading Assignment
- Read Beowulf, translated by Seamus Heaney.
- All assignments and tests will be based on this translation.
Students are encouraged to purchase their own copy so they can annotate while reading. A limited number of copies may be available to borrow from the Lee High School or Midland High School front offices for students who need one.
Required Assignments
- While reading, students must complete the attached Graphic Organizer. Students should:
- Follow the directions provided for each section.
- Respond thoroughly in complete sentences.
- Use details from the text to support their responses.
The Graphic Organizer will guide students in analyzing the text using Depth and Complexity, a set of thinking tools used in Honors, Pre-AP, and AP courses to promote deeper understanding of literature and ideas. These tools help students examine elements such as themes, patterns, perspectives, and underlying meanings within a text.
- Students are required to annotate their novel while reading. Annotation will help students track important ideas, themes, and significant passages in the text and prepare for the writing and discussion that will occur at the beginning of the school year.
- Mark anything in the text that relates to a theme in the novel as you read. Possible themes/motifs in the novel include, but are not limited to, sacrifice, freedom, identity, etc.
- Tip: List themes inside the front cover and note page numbers where information can be found. Underline sentences, paragraphs, and scenes that relate to the themes
- Mark anything in the text to help you analyze, comprehend, and make connections as you read.
- Tip: Highlight, tab, or take notes in the margins to track your thinking
- Mark anything in the text that relates to a theme in the novel as you read. Possible themes/motifs in the novel include, but are not limited to, sacrifice, freedom, identity, etc.
Students should bring their annotated book to class on the first day of school.
In-Class Writing Assessment
Students will complete a timed writing assessment (approximately 40 minutes) during the first week of school. Because the writing requires a strong understanding of the text, students must read the entire book to be successful.