A written summary and analysis of Cressida Cowell’s “How to Train Your Dragon” series, often assigned to students, demonstrates comprehension of plot, characters, themes, and literary devices. For example, a student might analyze Hiccup’s character development or explore the recurring theme of prejudice against dragons. These assignments typically require the student to articulate their understanding of the book’s narrative and its broader implications.
Crafting such an assessment fosters critical thinking, reading comprehension, and written communication skills. Historically, such reports have been a standard pedagogical tool for evaluating students’ engagement with literary works, allowing instructors to gauge their understanding and analytical capabilities. The value lies in encouraging deeper engagement with the text beyond simple reading, prompting students to consider the author’s intent and the book’s overall message.