Homeschool Book Reports:

Easy and Effective

Homeschool book reports are essential. Yes, a child can review a book in many ways, but "book reports" are the traditional means. Posters, speeches and illustrations are interesting and valuable. But the written report vividly show the child's understanding of the material and is an excellent exercise in clear thinking and writing.

To begin...

First, remind your child to read the book thoughtfully, actively. He can highlight or make notes of important ideas, characters and events.

Next, emphasize to the student that he spend time just thinking. His paper needs to be more that just recounting events.

What is the meaning of the writing? Discuss it with him, asking pertinent questions which might bring him to better understanding.

Then outline to organize his thoughts. (If he tries to skimp on this, believe me, homeschool book reports will end up actually taking much more time and effort.)

Only now is it time to begin to write. The following is the typical five paragraph report. It is a guideline only. Change it as needed. Please note that both the sample book reports from 5th grade and 9th grade follow the outline but are adapted according to grade level.

At the top of the page all homeschool book reports begin with:

• His name
• The class
• Date
• Title of book (underlined or italics)
• Author
• Type (biography, fiction, religious, etc.)
• Major Characters

The first paragraph is introduction only.
Ease the reader into the paper. It has to be very general, no details. Mention the title and author again here. The last sentence of this first paragraph is the thesis, the main idea of the book. Don't let this intimidate the writer. There can be several theses for any piece of literature, each stated in a different way. The child writes what he pulls from the reading. Example: The hero of this work was a virtuous person worthy of emulation.

The second paragraph explains a point of the thesis.
Be specific and use examples. Quote from the text. Prove your point. For example, if the student writes that the main character is kind, what lead him to this conclusion? What thoughts, words or deeds show this? Example: "He shared his favorite candy with the younger child." This would indeed back up the assertion.

The third paragraph explains a second point referred to in the thesis.
Example: Honesty was another attibute of the central character. Then the child picks out several detailed proofs.

The fourth paragraph covers a third point taken from the thesis.

Finally...the last paragraph.
It is very easy once he gets the idea. Just reverse the first paragraph. In the first sentence, restate (not repeat) the thesis. Sentence two reminds the reader of the three points in the middle paragraphs...and finally, add one last thought. Example: Youths of today will undoubtedly benefit from reading about (name).

Hopefully, this formula for homeschool book reports will ease the youngster into writing. He can sprinkle it with good adjectives and precise words. Include a question or exclamation. It should be edited at least three times before the final draft is handed in to you.

Clear thinking and clear organization, correct spelling, correct punctuation, correct grammar. An A+ perfect paper!

Great Books

5th Grade Sample Book Report

9th Grade Sample Book Report

Outlines for Compositions

Return Home from Homeschool Book Reports