1. Informational Writing
READ 180
Grade 8

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. Introduction

6. 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

7. Body Paragraph 2 Source- Scope

8. Body Paragraph 3 Source- Readworks

10. 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…

11. 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

12. Conclusion Paragraph 4 Graphic Organizer

13. 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

14. 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)

15. 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