LESSON FOUR: Begin the Writing Process
LESSON DESCRIPTION
Students begin the writing process for a persuasive/argumentative essay. During class they select a topic, generate ideas, and plan arguments with supporting evidence. This is the first of a four-session writing assignment.
GRADE-LEVEL EXPECTATIONS
W3C Write multi-paragraph expository (exposition/expository writing) and persuasive
(persuasive writing/argument) essays with
§ an effective thesis statement
§ effective paragraphing
§ convincing elaboration through specific and relevant details
§ originality and individual perspective
§ individual style and voice
§ Sources of Literature
Continue use of readings from earlier lessons
§ Supplies
Chalkboard, white board, or other surface area for suggested writing topics and timeline should remain visible for the duration of the writing process
§ Handouts provided
o Writing Prompt Scoring Guide
§ Words to know
o persuasive writing/argument
o exposition/expository writing
o style
o voice
o graphic organizer
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Collect and review students’ pre-writing and/or drafting as needed. Graphic organizers might be included.
LEARNING ACTIVITIES
1. Students review newspaper and magazine articles and editorials for possible topics. The articles and editorials may also serve as writing examples. Possible writing topics may include:
§ Do you believe religious intolerance exists in the world today? Provide examples from either personal experience or your knowledge of current events.
§ Write an editorial that supports the point of view expressed by either Chief Red Jacket or the missionary, Reverend Cram. Provide specific reasons for your support.
§ Your principal is considering a report card that replaces letter or number grades with pass or fail. What is your position? Write a letter to your principal that states your position and explains your reasons in detail.
2. Students complete a graphic organizer to generate pre-writing ideas. The argument chart graphic organizer is a good pre-writing tool for persuasive writing. To help students begin, pose questions concerning the actual prompts and/or persuasive writing.
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Questions for Students
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What is religious intolerance?
Cite some historical examples of religious intolerance.
What does religious intolerance ‘look like’?
Give examples of religious intolerance in the world today.
What are assertions?
What is supporting evidence?
What is an opposing viewpoint?
How are arguments used in persuasive writing?
What qualities comprise effective persuasive argument?
What graphic organizers might you use to generate ideas for your persuasive writing? |
3. Provide students with a copy of the Writing Prompt Scoring Guide. Review the guide and answer questions to clarify. Students begin drafting their persuasive essays.