Discuss RL1
Questions?
Examples?
Constructive criticism with volunteers
Time for revisions
First Essay
For our first essay this semester, we are going to write a problem-posing essay. This type of essay is exactly what it sounds like: an essay that explains a problem. However, it is important to understand that the essay does not need to solve the problem.
What is the problem we have been discussing and brainstorming about?
More Prewriting
In your notebook, you should have two sets of six sentences each where you wrote about two things that are keeping you from being successful in school
Now write one more set of 6 sentences about one more thing that is keeping you from being successful in school.
Now for each one of those things, add details by using variations on the reporter's questions (new brainstorming technique)
Think of a specific example; start with "when"
Thesis Statement
The next thing to do is to create a working thesis statement to give us some direction.
What does a thesis statement do in academic writing and where does it go?
Tells the main message of the essay and is specific to the essay
Structure of a thesis statement
Topic and comment
The things that keep me from doing my work for school are . . .
I have a hard time being successful in school because . . .
Put thesis statements on the board
Cool down and next steps (5 min)
For next class:
Craft a thesis statement
Brainstorm about the 3 ideas you are going to write about; use freewriting, listing, mind-mapping, or reporter's questions