Unit 3 Small Group Texts

💡 Teacher Tip: This is a great discussion question, but for pacing considerations, perhaps a presentation is not necessary. Instead, you could arrange an informal discussion/debate or Socratic Seminar.

Focus: Multimedia Presentation

Prompt: You have read selections that address the benefits and drawbacks of space exploration. With your group, develop and deliver a multimedia presentation that addresses this question:

Should space exploration be a priority for our country?

Academic Vocabulary

justify
alternative
certainty
discredit
assumption       

💡 It is essential to have students use these words throughout the unit, particularly in their performance tasks/assessments.       

Standard(s)

🔍 7-8.W.1 Write arguments to support claims with logical reasoning, relevant evidence from accurate and credible sources, and provide a conclusion that follows from and supports the argument presented. 

a. Introduce claims, distinguish the claims from alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically. 

b. Use words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among claims, counterclaims, reasons, and evidence. 

c. Use appropriate conventions and style for the audience, purpose, and task.

🔍 7-8.W.4 Conduct short research projects to craft an argument, answer a question, or provide an analysis. 

a. Gather, assess, and use information from credible sources on the topic. 

b. Generate ideas to demonstrate understanding of the topic and purpose. 

c. Avoid plagiarism by quoting, paraphrasing, and citing, using a standard format for citation of evidence. 

d. Interact and collaborate with others throughout the writing process.

Support/Resources

PDF

Fishbowl Discussion Protocol

Facilitating Socratic Seminars

Analyzing an Effective Presentation

Presentation Planning Outline

Presentation Self-Reflection