1. How Writers Work Unit 1 8th Grade ELA Writers Workshop
IMMERSION DAY 4: Writing as Inspiration – looking at theme/author’s message
How Writers Work Unit 1
8th Grade ELA Writers Workshop

2. RATIONALE
We can listen to inspirational stories in order to think about the authors’ messages/themes as well as draw evidence from the text to support our thoughts and ideas.
We can reflect on our own values we think are important and explore how to relate those values to our writing.

3. What is “theme” and how do we identify that in literature?
Let’s take a look at our charts and handouts to help us…..
Beginner (1)
A single word or topic
Intermediate (2)
A metaphor or phrase
Proficient (3)
A concrete explanation of an abstract idea
Advanced (4)
A layered interpretation of a complex idea
Love
Love is a battlefield.
Love is chaotic and destructive.
Falling in love undermines your sense of individuality. However, through this love, we become stronger versions of ourselves.
Power
There is power in numbers.
People in the majority are insiders with power, while those in the minority are outsiders without it.
Money and opportunity separates insiders from outsiders. This distinction gives certain people more power than others. Because these insiders then make the rules, they are able to advance their own power, making it more and more difficult for outsiders to succeed in our society.
Identity
Don’t let anyone define you.
In our society, we allow stereotypes to determine the standards of beauty and value.
We use stereotypes because we are afraid of people who are different. Being different requires us to accept vulnerability as an outsider. If we celebrated diversity, we would have a stronger society because people would be able to act without fear of rejection.

4. Today’s Readings from Jackie’s Nine
We’ll read “In the Shadow of your Wings.” As we read, be thinking…
1. What “big idea” or “value” is exemplified in this piece?
2. What do you believe is the theme?
3. What evidence can you provide from the story that demonstrates this theme?
4. What writing techniques do you notice that show how the author accomplished getting this message across?
Next, we’ll read other selections from Jackie’s Nine individually. After reading, you will record your thoughts on the questions above, discuss with your team and report out your discussion to the class.

5. Reflecting on our own values and beliefs
One of the ways authors come up with ideas for stories is by reflecting on their values and beliefs.
An inspirational quote or the author’s theme in a book can spark something in a writer’s mind.
For each of the nine values in Sharon’s book, we can find a quote that relates to the value.
Look at the NINE values, choose one, and think about how it plays a role in your life. Think about an everyday experience where it would apply. Discuss with your shoulder partner.

6. Your assignment: Writing from Inspirational Quotes
Choose TWO of the quotes from the list given out to you.
Write them at the top of your writer’s notebook.
For each quote:
Describe what you feel the quote means.
Write about whether you agree with the quote; and
Write about a situation in YOUR LIFE that would relate to this quote