Argumentative Writing

     This project provided a real audience for our students to try out their persuasive voices.  In the past, they had written letters about school dress codes and start times.  Once in a while, those letters would be sent to our principal, who really didn't have the authority to make changes to these district policies.  In other words, the students had an audience, but they didn't see a real purpose to their writing.     With the Make a Difference project, students were encouraged to write to the organization they chose to represent, a local media outlet, or an important person in their life. We were still able to teach effective persuasive writing, but this time the students all had a person that would be their audience, and they were able to see results.

     The charities responded with letters saying how they would love to help.  Many of the charities--both local and national--sent items for the students to use the night of the fair: pamphlets, business cards, models, T-shirts, and even hats!  Some organizations sent representatives to stand with the kids at their booth.  By far the favorite were those animal rescue organizations that brought dogs or cats that were up for adoption.  

     The local media outlets have been wonderful as well.  Kids have been able to see that simply sending a letter can garner results.  We have had both of our local television stations contact students for interviews, all but a small handful of our local radio stations have had kids as guests on their morning shows or have had them call in to talk about the fair, and our local newspaper has written numerous articles quoting students and teachers.