Language Arts
AP English Language and Composition

Summer 2008

Hello Future AP English Language Students!

Please read this letter carefully. Share it with your parents.

1. Be positive about this class, about school and about life. I'm convinced that positive, optimistic people are not only happier and nicer to be around but also more successful in school and life.

2. Be prepared to work hard.  If you have poor work habits, you will likely not be successful here.  Stop by and see me in A116 or visit with your counselor if you have any concerns about your work ethic or your abilities in English.

3. Follow local, national, and world news over the summer. I will quiz you, have you respond in class during discussions, and have you write on current events when we get back to school in September.  In particular, you should be well versed on this year's political races.  Pay some attention to the state of the national economy.  Take a stand on issues and candidates.  Successful AP English Language students have a wealth of knowledge on a variety of subjects that they can use in their writing, so please stay informed. 

4. Get a copy of Eric Schlosser’s Fast Food Nation and read the Introduction and Chapter One before the first day of school. I will quiz you on them shortly after school begins in September.  (Barnes and Noble near the Valley Mall is ordering in a supply of Fast Food Nation books.  They should be here by July 1.)

5. Read at least two non-fiction books of your choice this summer. Find books that were written in the last five years. Don’t choose books that are mindless, vapid, sleazy or juvenile.  In other words, avoid gossip books, books about movie and music stars, horoscope manuals.  For this project, avoid valuable but limited works such as "how to" books.  Find well developed books that provoke thought about truly significant issues, events or people. If you are uncertain about a book’s suitability, that’s a bad sign. Pick a different one. Choose books that not only interests you but would also interest others of your age as you will make a class presentation about it.

6.  Before school starts in September, pick up a copy of a book called Sadlier-Oxford Vocabulary Workshop Level G.  Barnes and Noble is also ordering copies of these which should arrive by July 1. 

7. Have a relaxing, productive summer!

Mr. Sullivan

P.S. If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me at home: sullivan21117@comcast.net

(CVHS's English Language and Composition class is based on the program established by the College Board of Princeton, New Jersey  The CVHS English Language and Composition syllabus and class have been approved by the College Board. Click on the link below for more information about the national program.) 

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