In this lesson, students explore descriptive writing and sensory details then use those concepts to create a short piece of writing. Students consider examples of sensory details, identify sensory details in a short work, then create a descriptive, self-reflective work using writing that appeals to... Read more »
Creating and Editing Descriptive Writing
This lesson is designed to take place after completion of another K20 lesson, "Arguing With Evidence." Students will read an article from the New York Times and integrate knowledge of key terms to construct an argument based on a claim, evidence, and reasoning. Read more »
Part 2: Constructing Arguments
This lesson focuses on the theme of mob mentality. Students will look for connections between informational text and a piece of fiction from the book "The Outsiders." Students will analyze the actions of a character from "The Outsiders" and determine whether the character acted independently or as part... Read more »
Integrating Fiction and Nonfiction
Students will work collaboratively to examine and deconstruct published arguments based on social issues important to them. Students will then evaluate each other's analysis of published arguments and reflect on issues in today's society. While this lesson is currently aligned only to 10th-grade standards,... Read more »
Part 1: Deconstructing Arguments
This lesson will provide students with a personal understanding of Stevie Smith's poem, "Not Waving but Drowning." Students will practice inferencing and analytical skills during this lesson. Students will be assessed by utilizing a graphic organizer and a writing prompt encouraging a personal relationship... Read more »
Interpreting Poetry
This professional development focuses on defining and promoting literacy strategies across all subject areas. Participants will examine how literacy components are necessary for their subject areas, identify the specific literacy strategies appropriate for their content, and discuss ways to implement... Read more »