Writing Instruction
In order to become a better writer, students must be coached, given immediate feedback, and provided with the expectations of the specific written assignment. Scaffolding assignments using graphic organizers and outlines are differentiated methods that help students succeed. Once students are provided with outline templates, they are able to identify key elements that are necessary in a thorough written piece. I have included several worksheets on this page that are often given to my students before, during and after writing their written pieces. These specific documents are all related to the same research essay assignment. Lessons on research skills, thesis writing and grammar are initially taught before and during this writing process.
Scaffolding is extremely helpful for writers. For example, in this first document, students have read both of Antony's and Brutus' speeches and have used the graphic organizer to dissect and analyze the use of rhetorical appeals and devices throughout their speeches.
Scaffolding is extremely helpful for writers. For example, in this first document, students have read both of Antony's and Brutus' speeches and have used the graphic organizer to dissect and analyze the use of rhetorical appeals and devices throughout their speeches.
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Initially, students already had practice identifying and analyzing the power of rhetorical devices in several different speeches presented from history. Students are also well-practiced with this written response question and are aware that it will be given on the new Common Core Regents exam. Thus, students are given this assignment to once more read a specific speech and identify, analyze and evaluate the use of a specific rhetorical device.
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After students have completed this assignment, they are given the major research essay assignment: A speech about the topic of their choice using rhetorical appeals and devices. Below is the outline I have the students complete so they are well-aware of what is necessary in order to complete this research assignment correctly. This outline helps the students make sure they include specific details and a strong thesis. It is also used to help students with organization and development with their writing.
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Using their prior knowledge based on earlier writing assignments, the outline, and the rubric, students then complete their first draft. Once they have completed their first draft of the research speech essay, I usually have students peer edit each other's papers (using peer-editing packets I create) or self-edit their own papers using the self-editing packet. These two packets allow writers to notice their strengths, as well as areas that need improvement. Having previously read and dissected both Antony's and Brutus' speeches from Act III of Julius Caesar, students are aware of how authors use rhetorical devices to persuade readers. Thus, their active reading experience with the supplementary writing tools helps students succeed in writing a well-organized, fully developed research paper.
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