In Language Arts...

Students have been working in their SPRINGBOARD books to explore the theme of heroism, We've discussed the three strategies of definition (function, example, and negation) and read a variety of texts--poems, articles, stories, and more--that revolve around the theme of heroism. The culminating project for this unit is a definition essay. For this project, students will be writing essays about what heroism means to them. Over the next week and a half, students will go through the writing process, beginning with brainstorming, then outlining, drafting, revising, and finalizing.

Here are some links to tools that can help students with the writing process:
-An Overview of the Definition Essay (from SPRINGBOARD)
-OUTLINE of the Definition Essay (an outline that guides students through the sections of the definition essay)
-OUTLINE Version A (this is a slightly simplified version of the Definition Essay Outline for students who would like more guidance during this part of the writing process)
-A Sample Definition Essay about Heroism

We'll also continue to refine our understanding of grammar. Students will also continue to review the eight parts of speech, a study that will culminate in a mastery test that involves identifying all eight parts of speech.

Last but not least, NaNoWriMo continues…keep up the good work student writers!! And if you're looking for a little writerly inspiration, check out the Young Writers Program webpage for some pep talks from writers.

NaNoWriMo!!!

National Novel Writing month starts today! Congrats to all students who have decided to take on the challenge of writing a novel during the month of November. I'll be writing right along with you. I encourage all writers to check out NaNoWriMo's Young Writers Program homepage. On that page, young writers can find pep talks from both other young writers and published writers, "dares" to help get writing jump-started, and much more.
Explore worlds; explore words; have fun, and--most importantly:
Write on!!!