The 4 Square

How to Create a Four-Square Graphic Organizer Fold a sheet of paper into four squares. Write a TOPIC SENTENCE in the center of the paper In three of the squares write a complete sentence which states reasons, examples, or explanations that support the sentence in the center of the paper

In the fourth box students will write a conclusion. – Don’t forget to restate your thesis

Using Complete Sentences Center box now contains a complete sentence. Boxes 2-4 contain complete sentences which state reasons, examples, or explanations. Each must be different, real, and quantifiable.

Transition Word___________________ 2. Reason— --Vivid Detail Transition Word____________________ 3. Reason— --Vivid Detail Transition Word____________________ 4. Reason— --Vivid Detail CONCLUSION 5. Feeling— I love school. INTRODUCTION: (Include title, author, hook, brief summary)

Writing a Paragraph Paragraphs are several sentences on the same topic. Now transfer the sentences from the four blocks to lined paper for paragraph building.

Add Supporting Details The reasons, examples, or explanations developed in the previous step now need further development In a sense, boxes 2,3, and 4 will each be four squared independently These details will make up the substance of the body paragraphs of the multiple-paragraph essay. Using the four square to develop these ideas ensures that details are aligned with the main ideas, and the topic sentence start every paragraph.

Adding Supporting Details (an example) Transition Word___________________ 2. Learn --Read --Math --Science Transition Word____________________ 3. Friends --Share lunches --Invite out or over --Study together Transition Word____________________ 4. Play --in centers --on playground --recess CONCLUSION 5. School is a great place because we learn, meet friends, and play. School is a great place

Evaluating- A Checklist Are the four square reasons quantifiable and not opinions? Is there repetition of detail? Are the details logical expansions of reasons? Are the details quantifiable and factual, free of opinion? Are there mechanical errors in the wrap-up sentence?

Adding Connecting Words or Transitions By now the thesis is developing intro three reason. These reasons should be different from each other and therefore necessitate the use of transition or connecting words. Connecting words can be explained as the “little sticking out part” of the puzzle.

Adding Connecting Words to Provide Transitions Between Ideas Transition Word______First___________ 2. Learn --Read --Math --Science Transition Word________Also_______ 3. Friends --Share lunches --Invite out or over --Study together Transition Word________Next_________ 4. Play --in centers --on playground --recess Transition Word: ____So you can see____ CONCLUSION 5. School is a great place because we learn, meet friends, and play. School is a great place

Review Samples

Homework – Come up with a topic of your choice – Fill out a four square graphic organizer