Catching Holden

As we delve into one JD Salinger's most famous novels, Catcher in the Rye, it is important to remember that Holden is really just a reflection of us to some extent. This novel is a take home read, simply because you don't need me per se for the reading portion, but rather the interpretation aspect of the novel.  

As you read the novel you will see Holden from a variety of perspectives. If you find yourself becoming frustrated with Holden, ask yourself why...why is it you wish or think he should behave differently? Think of your own teenage experience are there things you wish you could go back and change? Remember, Holden's story is  a flashback (you know something that has already happened). As we grow older we have the gift of hindsight; meaning we are in a position to play as the sports commentators say "Monday quarterback". Imagine if we had the knowledge of the future...would our choices be different?

Since this is a take home read I will approach your readings and quizzes in a different way than I have in previous years. You may be quizzed each week or every other week--you won't know so it's wise to keep up with the readings.  I will ask you to read multiple nonfiction articles regarding Salinger's life one will be Holden Caulfield: A Voice of A Generation

This year I will expect you to annotate main ideas or themes in each chapter, circling vocabulary highlighted in your study guides. I will remain responsible for providing information on the literary terms for each study guide.  Below you will find all the study guides, calendar and ppt of literary terms for Catcher in the Rye in case you misplace the ones that are given in class.

Catcher in the Rye reading and assignment calendar
Catcher in the Rye study guide chapters 1-4
Catcher in the Rye study guide chapters 5-8
Catcher in the Rye study guide chapters 9-12
Catcher in the Rye study guide chapters 13-16
Catcher in the Rye study guide chapters 17-21
Catcher in the Rye study guide Chapters 22-26

Absent when we covered literary terms? Get caught up here: Catcher in the Rye literary terms

Love Catcher in the Rye? Check out Flavorwire's top ten books to replace Catcher in the Rye

You will be assessed on your knowledge of this book in three ways. One to fit all of your modalities (learning styles): Class Bulletin Board Project, Socratic Seminar and a comprehension test.

Still curious about the man behind the novel? Check out a trailer for his biography: Salinger