Today the 7th graders finished our three day activity by proving their case in front of the class. Every student stood in front of the class, presenting the argument their group had worked to develop over the past three days. Many different suspects were named as being the guilty party in the murder of I.M. Writing, including Dr. Q Totes, T.H. Isis, Sophie Lingo & Sister Tessa Ana Lee Sis. No one, however, accused Organa Z. Nation. You all did a great job presenting and working together in groups.
After the presentations, I revealed the true mystery--my purpose in doing this exercise. This activity was specifically designed to mirror the strategies that one might use when organizing and writing an essay. You began by annotating the text you were given, just as you should while reading. Your accusation statement, just like your thesis, is a clear and well worded statement of your argument. Your reasons, just like your topic sentences, are more specific and focused points or arguments that support the larger thesis. Your evidence, just like your quotes, is meant to support your argument, lending credibility to your argument. Then, just like in an analysis in a literary essay, it's important that you explain that evidence and connect it back to your larger point.
Hopefully you had fun with this AND you now have a better understanding of how to structure and develop your written ideas. Have a great weekend!
Homework due Monday:
-None
Long term due dates:
5/26--Expository essay test for A Raisin in the Sun
5/27--Historical fiction story start due
5/31--Book Talk #1
6/1--May IR log due
6/3--Book Talk #2
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