Session 8: Midterm (Tuesday, Oct. 21)

Hi everyone,

The midterm is intended to be both an assessment of how you are thinking about picture books and a chance to hear about new books from some of your classmates. Take it seriously, but also know that the experience tends to be fun!

Here are some thoughts that are in addition to the information on the rubric and in the syllabus. I hope they help! Feel free to ask questions as comments if you think that others will benefit.

For the review that you post:

1. Title your blog post the title of the book
2. Include the full citation for your book, using MLA format. (Although you can ignore the instructions to double space.) Although MLA doesn't call for it. Indicate the illustrator as well!
   
3. You might think of the body of the review as consisting of two parts: a description/summary of the text and your response/analysis of the text. Remember that you are introducing the book to a prospective reader! What do you appreciate about the text? Is there anything about the text that you question? Since this is a short review, you will need to be deliberate in what you choose to say! Also, don't lose sight for the fact that this is a literary review, not one designed to talk about using books to teach!
4. You are welcome to add a picture of the cover, but it is not necessary.
   
5. Add labels to your post to indicate the genre and anything else you think appropriate. If you click "Show all" at the right of the label box, you'll see those that are available. If you need to create one, just type it in the box.
6. Proof read your post and see how it looks up on the blog. You can edit and revise, although I will be assessing the one that you post before the midterm class session.
   

Here are some examples of book reviews. What works in them for you? What doesn't?

• Here are several reviews from former TE 348 students: A, B, C, and D. (The only problem with D is that the book is extensively reviewed in C & G.)
• Here are some samples from The Horn Book. These reviews use a more complex structure. You are welcome to try this style on or go for the two paragraph review. :-)
• Here's a review that I wrote. Just as a point of reference, it is 172 words.
  

For your oral booktalk, it is very important that you be on time. I've posted the schedule on Angel, so double check your time slot! For the booktalk you will need:

• the picture book you are reviewing
• a copy of the rubric with the top filled out
• a copy of your written review
• You may use notes, but please do not "read" your booktalk to us!

You'll have exactly 5 minutes, so be sure to check the length of your talk! Otherwise, think of this as a chance to share a good book with others. :-)