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Default Picture Beth Ackroyd

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April 3, 2017: 3-even

Published April 3, 2017, 4:44 p.m.

""The writing unit we just finished was one on debate writing. Our mentor texts were the debate articles found in Junior Scholastic magazine. We read two and analyzed them so we would know what to include in our own writing. We realized that one should start with an introduction that defined the issue and acknowledged both sides before moving into one clear position.

We worked on incorporating two specific writing techniques: an "if....then" statement, and an acknowledgement of how complicated or difficult the issue can be. We worked on using words that precisely captured the idea or image we wanted our readers to have in their minds. Students got feedback from each other, from teachers, and from administrators. In the midst of all this, we brainstormed strong words that we might use, and we created a list of things that writers are always trying to do.

We finished with the amazing experience of sharing our work with Mrs. Downey and Dr. Gutekanst! I got an email from him today. In it he wrote: "I really appreciated the time I had with your students the other day in Jessica's office. I was so impressed, and you should be so proud of their work."

I am indeed proud of them!

Next up - sports writing! Happy Opening Day!