In third grade, we begin writing 5 paragraph essays in the first trimester. First, we start by analyzing a paragraph. What is a paragraph? A paragraph is a group of sentences/details that explain one topic. A paragraph has a topic sentence (which explains what the paragraph will be about). The rest of the sentences work to explain the topic sentence or main idea. Example:
My dog Carmello is a crazy boy. Carmello loves to chew, bark at anything that moves, and is always doing something silly. He's chewed through a couch, coffee table, and endless indestructible chew toys. He loves to sit at the window and watch people in the neighborhood. Whether it's a cat, human, mail truck, or drifting piece of paper, he's watching and barking. He's always acting like a goofy dog, but we love him anyway.
Can you tell which sentence is my topic sentence? Which sentences SUPPORT my topic or explain my topic sentence?
Next, we start to write introduction paragraphs. Our first paragraph gives a "preview" of what you will be writing about. Just like a movie preview, you only want to give a little bit of information so your reader has to continue to read to find out more. You want to keep your reader in suspense (they are on the edge of their seats!).
After the introduction paragraph, we write three "middle" paragraphs that tell about the introduction and give specific details. This is where writers paint pictures with words.
Finally, we use the fifth paragraph to summarize what we have written so far and use creative ways to keep readers coming back for more. The graphic organizer we use is outlined below.
P1 - INTRODUCTION: Topic sentence, three details, and conclusion sentence
P2 - MIDDLE PARAGRAPH 1: Use supporting details to describe the first topic detail.
P3 - MIDDLE PARAGRAPH 2: Use supporting details to describe the second topic detail.
P4 - MIDDDLE PARAGRAH 3: Use supporting details to describe the third topic detail.
P5- CONCLUSION/SUMMARY: Wrap up your topic by adding something creative to keep your reader interested in reading more.
Depending on the type of writing piece (letter, persuasive, how to, etc), the graphic organizer is modified slightly. The goal is to understand how a well organized writing peice can paint a vivid picture for readers. Below are some examples of student written essays and peices written together as a whole class in third grade. In fourth grade, we will begin by reviewing these writing concepts and then we will move into literary devices and idea development! I can't wait to see what we will be able to do this year!
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Eden,
Thank you for sharing your piece!
2/23/2011 - Right now, we are working on persuasive essays in class. Persuasives are very fun. Consider talking about two different perspectives (thoughts) at home and try to convince someone to think like you do!