How to create a reading log

Dear 8S1 students,

In the next few weeks, you are going to create a reading log for Number the stars by
Lois Lowry. To do so, you need to know a few things.

What is a reading log?

A reading log is a folder or a notebook which you use to take notes on the story, the
characters, important symbols and all those other fascinating thoughts which come into your head while you are
reading the novel.

How to get started

Get a notebook or a folder with which you want to work. You can design a cover which fits the story of the book,
if you are creative. If you aren’t, just make sure it is neat and has the minimum relevant information (either on the
cover or on the first page): title – name of the author – your own name.

What you should put into your reading log

Reading logs always have some essential parts, like information on the story or plot (usually the different
chapters), the characters and important topics. But you can, of course, always add more ideas. Just be creative!

Working with the different parts

You should include information on every part of the text. You must have 7 parts minimum in your reading log. 1
PART = 2 elements at least...

Part 1 Chapters 1+2 (p. 29)

Part 2 Chapters 3+4 (p. 54)
Part 3 Chapters 5+6 (p. 79)
Part 4 Chapters 7+8+9 (p. 106)
Part 5 Chapters 10+11+12 (p. 130)
Part 6 Chapters 13+14+15 (p. 154)
Part 7 Chapters 16+17 (p170)

Each part must ALWAYS include 2 elements minimum:

o 1) a summary of the passage. It can be done in the form of notes, but they must be clear to the reader.
Think about the wh-questions (Who? What? Where? When? Why? and How?) to guide you. (2/3 simple
sentences maximum)
o 2) a reaction: how did you react when you read the chapters or particular elements of the chapter? Were
you surprised, intrigued, irritated, bored, shocked, moved, saddened, amused, excited, etc…? Explain.
(2/3 simple sentences maximum)

OR
o 2) a connection: did an element remind you of something you know? (a song, a film, an event you
experienced, a picture, another book…). Explain. (2/3 simple sentences maximum)
BONUS: It CAN include (it’s not an obligation):
o a character profile. Also choose a fitting picture for the character(s).

o important quotes for you.

o a character map of the most important characters. Add arrows, symbols and captions to show how the
characters are connected.
o which person you would choose to play the roles of some characters in a film version. Print or draw
pictures of people and explain why they would be the perfect fit for the characters in the film.
o a glossary with new words you want to remember, or their definitions.

o Any picture or illustration you like and that are related to the text.

o Anything else you find fitting… you can be creative!

- Assessment:

Content:
- The summaries are complete. We know what happens in each /30
part.
- There is almost always a reaction for each part. /15
- There are regular connections made, and they are relevant. /15
Language:
- The sentences are clear, basic mistakes are avoided. /20
- Even when there are only phrases and notes, the meaning is clear.
Presentation:
- The reading log is neat, well presented. /20
Extra content:
- Bonus for extra and relevant content
Penalties:
- Delays, very incomplete log, etc…
TOTAL:
%

Remarks:

Adapted from a document by: © Ernst Klett Sprachen GmbH, Stuttgart, 2020
Autorin: Daniela Anton