Book Reports
A book report is a specialized report assigned by a teacher. Students often think of book reports as the teacher’s way to see if they really read the book. But sometimes your teacher will use a book report for other reasons. For instance, book reports can be a vehicle to teach writing skills. Compare and contrast, descriptive writing, cause and effect, even persuasive writing can shape a book report. It’s very important to follow your teacher’s instructions. All book reports will follow the basic report structure.
Introduction
The introduction is where you will name the title, author, and publication date of the book. You also lay the groundwork for your report here, known as your thesis. Will you be comparing and contrasting the main character and the villain? Perhaps you plan to explore the impact setting has on the main character’s actions. Whatever you want to accomplish in your book report, state it in your introduction.
Book Report Body
The body is the meat of your paper. This is where you tie the characters, setting, and plot to the point you wish to make in your report. Remember to use three or more paragraphs to tie story elements of the book you are reporting on to support the statement of purpose in your introduction.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve written your report, there’s one more step, the conclusion. This is where you restate your thesis. Restate does not mean repeat! Think about that time your little sister was bothering you. You start with, “Cut it out.” When that doesn’t work you move on to, “Leave me alone.” If she keeps it up you might try, “I can’t hear you.” Finally if nothing else works you could say, “Mo-om, Sissy’s bothering me.” See how restate is different from repeat? Your goal is to end your book report with a statement that shows your thesis makes sense.
