During the first week of your new English class, you will be asked to respond in class to what you have read. Teachers will also expand assignments and discussion of the books into semester course work. As you read, take brief notes that may be used to help you with your in-class writing or assignment. Your notes should focus on themes, characters, setting and conflict, as well as your own responses and opinions. Teachers often hear on that first or second day back, “I read this so long ago.” That’s not an adequate excuse. These are actual graded assignments and you are responsible for the information, so take notes when you read and review at the beginning of school.