Unit 2 Writing Task
Unit Home | Writing Task | | Anchor Texts | Small Group Texts | Independent Texts
Unit Home | Writing Task | | Anchor Texts | Small Group Texts | Independent Texts
Performance Task: Writing Focus - Informative Essay
💡 This is the task students will complete after the Whole Class Learning structure. This should be an extended writing task, with the teacher modeling the writing process along the way.
You have just read and watched selections that relate to someone experiencing a turning point in life.
Review the selections and analyze the ways in which specific events and experiences contribute the the main character's tranformation. Then, write a cause-and-effect essay in which you address the following prompt:
How does [the main character] transform over the course of the play/story?
For a model of a well-crafted nonfiction narrative, see the Launch Text, "At the Crossroads."
Possible Paragraph Frame/ Sentence Starters
In the beginning, ___(character's name)___ was ___(desciption of character traits)___ . According to the text, ___(evidence and explanation of character trait)___. This changed when ___(experience that caused the character to transform)___. After this turning point, ___(describe the change in the character)___.
One way that [the main character] transformed over the course of the play/story was…
The specific event/experience that had a significant impact on [the main character]'s transformation was…
One example of cause-and-effect in [the main character]'s transformation was…
The main character's transformation can be attributed to…
In the beginning of the play/story, [the main character] was , but by the end, they had become .
The turning point for [the main character]'s transformation occurred when…
[The main character]'s transformation was influenced by…
The change in [the main character]'s attitude/behavior was a result of…
The most significant factor contributing to [the main character]'s transformation was…
As a result of [specific event/experience], [the main character] underwent a profound transformation.
Exemplary Response:
In the selections we have read and watched, the main character undergoes a significant transformation as a result of specific events and experiences. These events serve as a catalyst for their growth and development. Throughout the course of the story, the main character faces numerous challenges and obstacles that ultimately shape their identity and perspective.
One of the key events that contribute to the main character's transformation is when they lose their job. This event serves as a turning point in their life, forcing them to confront their own insecurities and reevaluate their priorities. As a result, they begin to explore new opportunities and discover hidden talents. This shift in their mindset leads to personal growth and a newfound sense of purpose.
Another important experience that contributes to the main character's transformation is when they meet a mentor figure. This mentor provides guidance and support, helping the main character navigate through difficult decisions and overcome their fears. Through this relationship, the main character gains valuable insights and learns important life lessons, ultimately transforming into a more confident and self-assured individual.
Throughout the story, the main character also encounters various challenges that test their resilience and determination. These obstacles serve as opportunities for growth and change. By facing adversity head-on, the main character learns valuable lessons about perseverance and self-belief, ultimately becoming a stronger and more resilient person.
In conclusion, the main character undergoes a significant transformation over the course of the play/story. Through specific events and experiences, they grow, develop, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. This transformation is a result of their willingness to face challenges, seek guidance, and embrace new opportunities.
Non-Exemplary Response:
The main character transforms over the story. They go through things that change them. They lose their job and it makes them think about stuff. They meet a mentor who helps them. They also have challenges that they face. In the end, they are different.
THE END.
🔍7-8.W.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content, and provide a conclusion that supports the information or explanation presented.
a. Introduce a topic, previewing what is to follow; organize ideas and information into broader categories; utilize formatting, graphics, and multimedia related to the topic.
b. Develop the topic with relevant facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, and examples.
c. Use appropriate and varied transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas.
d. Use precise language and content-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
e. Use appropriate conventions and style for the audience, purpose, and task.
Academic Vocabulary
contribute
consistent
maintain
observation
sufficient
💡 It is essential to have students use these words throughout the unit, particularly in their performance tasks/assessments.
Skill Vocabulary
introduction
conclusion
central idea
textual evidence
analysis
factual explanation
logical organization
effective transitions
precise language
specific vocabulary
formal style
objective tone
direct quotations
paraphrase
order of importance
chronological order