Informational Writing READ 180 Grade 8 2016-2017

A Strong Writing Task... A Strong Essay will demonstrate… • Comprehension of the text • Follows an organized structure (introduction, body, and conclusion). • Capitalizes and denotes titles correctly. • Does not use personal pronouns (I, me, my.) Uses rhetorical questions, if needed. • Includes detailed body paragraphs with text evidence. • Uses quotation marks correctly. • Uses advanced vocabulary (grade 8 and beyond). • Has been edited for Mechanics, Usage, and Grammar mistakes

Break Down the Prompt What two questions is the prompt asking? 1. In what ways do the presence of the Burmese Python negatively harm the new environment? 2. What steps are being taken to stop the spread of the Burmese Python in the Florida Everglades and have they been successful? What do you need to write your essay about? 1. Discuss the harmful effects of the Burmese Python in the Florida Everglades. How many texts do you need to include evidence from? 2

Introduction Step 1: Grab the reader’s attention (shocking statement or fact, ask a question) Step 2: Give background information (use the prompt to help!) Step 3: State topic/claim (from the prompt) -- Include title of texts (essays, Infographic, videos, etc.) -- Include authors’ names, if known

Introduction

Body The central focus of your essay Your essay should include one paragraph for each text that you are asked to include in your response The paragraphs should be 4-5 sentences Remember ACE -- A = Answer the question that supports the essay’s claim -- C = Cite evidence from the text to support your answer -- E = Explain how the text evidence supports your answer

Body Paragraph 2 Source- Scope

Body Paragraph 3 Source- Readworks

Unit 2 – Informational Writing  How to Include Quotations in Your Essay   Transitions to Use after Quotations to Explain According to Kristin Lewis, “…” According to Ms. Lewis, “…” Kristin Lewis writes, “…” This is important because… The author clearly states, “…” This means that… In the text, “The Snake That’s Eating Florida”... In other words, ... According to the text, “Pythons Invade the Florida Everglades”... This shows that… This explains why… An example from the text is… As a result, … Another example is…

Conclusion Step 1: Use a transition to show your writing its coming to a close -- In conclusion, -- It is clear, Step 2: Restate topic/claim (from intro) --Include title of texts (essays, infographic, videos, etc.) --Include authors’ names, if known Step 3 : Restate the main idea of each body paragraph Step 4 : End with a final though to make the reader think about the claim or make a change

Conclusion Paragraph 4 Graphic Organizer

Typing Rough Draft Use Writer’s Packet Introduction graphic organizer List of transition words for body paragraphs -- Introducing a citation -- Explaining a citation Body paragraph 1 graphic organizer Body paragraph 2 graphic organizer Conclusion graphic organizer

Informational Essay Checklist Has a clear introduction States a focus/topic clearly, precisely, and thoughtfully Uses specific evidence from the text(s) to support and develop the topic and explains that evidence Concludes effectively Uses precise language Shows control over conventions (See Editing Checklist)

Editing Checklist Punctuation Paragraphs indented Quotation Marks Commas Apostrophes Spelling Using the Right Word Paragraphs indented NO run-on sentences and fragments Pronoun Agreement Subject-Verb Agreement Capitalization