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Think. Write. Speak. Connect.
9th Grade Honors Language Arts
May 8, 2015
Dear Prospective 9th Grade Student and Parent/Guardian:
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. I am Ms. Senas the 9th
grade Honors Language Arts teacher at MAST@FIU. One of the themes in my class is
that when we “Think.Write.Speak.Connect” we are able to connect with literature—
and each other. For this reason, it is important that students continue to work on
their vocabulary and reading skills during the summer. In addition, these titles will
allow us to have discussions that will encourage students to think and write
critically while analyzing text.
All students are to read the following texts and complete the assignments prior to
the beginning of the school year. Assignments will be due within the first week of
school and will be submitted on Edmodo (class codes will be provided on the first
day of school). Please complete documents on Microsoft Word. Students may
purchase or borrow texts from the library (e-text or hard copy—your choice).
Assigned Readings:
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
ISBN: 0679734775
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury ISBN: 978-1-45167331-9
You are to complete the following assignments to be handed in the first week
of school:
 The House on Mango Street Write a vignette (detailed moment) using one
of the subjects from the novel in the style of Sandra Cisneros. Minimum two
double-spaced pages.
o A vignette is a detailed snapshot of an event written in first person as
it is occurring. Vignettes often incorporate dialogue and vivid sensory
details.
o Sample vignette topics: A time you got in trouble, A special birthday, A
special holiday, Life in your neighborhood, A family tradition, Advice
from an adult, A positive OR negative experience in school, Life in
your city, A sport you enjoy playing, etc.

Fahrenheit 451 In the perspective of Guy Montag, write a persuasive
resignation letter to Captain Beatty explaining your reasons for leaving the
fire department.
Consider the following:
 What is the purpose of books/reading?
 What event(s) made you want to leave your profession?
 What profession would you like to pursue?
 Try to change Captain Beatty’s mind about burning books.
*Please write in first person as if you are Guy Montag.
Looking forward to a stellar upcoming school year,
Ms. Senas