May 19, 2008
Students received a CD, bookmark, and handout about the author who will be visiting on Friday.
Students went into the computer lab to type up their class finals.
Remember to hand in the class final, and, if you haven't yet, turn in your tall tale and your underland story.
On Wednesday, come dressed to go outside and to sit on the ground.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Friday, May 16, 2008
Voice in Writing
Voice in Writing
One of the Six Traits of Writing
Working with Voice
Voice is Personality!
⇨Voice in writing lets the personality shine through.
⇨You adjust your voice depending on your
audience and purpose.
Here is a rubric for voice in writing from kimskorner4teachertalk.com.
One of the Six Traits of Writing
Working with Voice
Voice is Personality!
⇨Voice in writing lets the personality shine through.
⇨You adjust your voice depending on your
audience and purpose.
Here is a rubric for voice in writing from kimskorner4teachertalk.com.
Rating of 5 (Strong):
The paper shows the writer's personality. The writer has written the paper to be read, not just as an assignment. There is a connection between the writer and the reader.
 | The paper is honest and sincere; it is written from the heart. |
| The language helps the reader "see" what is happening in the writing. |
| The writer shows his feelings and emotions in the paper. |
| The writer cares about the topic. |
| The reader gets a real sense of humor, sadness, happiness, suspense, excitement, etc. from the writing. |
Rating of 3 (Developing):
The paper has some personality, but the reader has a hard time connecting with the writer. The writing may sound familiar, not really new or unique.
| The paper has some moments of honesty and sincerity. |
| The voice may be strong on occasion, then hide behind general language that isn't very specific. |
| The writing hides as much of the writer's personality as it shows. |
| The writer seems afraid to show how he really feels. |
| The reader only sometimes gets a sense of humor, sadness, happiness, suspense, excitement, etc. from the writing. |
Rating of 1 (Weak):
The paper has no personality. It sounds like an encyclopedia article, with only the facts. The writer seems to have no feelings about the topic.
| The reader cannot sense any sincerity or honesty in the paper. The reader has no connection to the writer. |
| The writing is not very exciting throughout most of the paper. There are no highs or lows. |
| The writing is factual and does not cause the reader to feel anything about the topic. |
| The writer doesn't seem to care about the topic at all. |
May 15, 2008
May 15, 2008
Today we had a mini-lesson on Voice (one of the the Six Traits of Quality Writing).
See the nearby post about Voice.
We read and listened to examples of voice.
Do this Activity:
1. Select a voice (pick a voice that is strong and easily recognized):
Captain Jack Sparrow
Miss Piggy
Giselle (from Enchanted)
Edward (from Enchanted)
Bugs Bunny
Eeyore
_________________________
_________________________
2. Tell about what you actually did last night, or about what you did this morning, or something you did last weekend, using the voice you’ve selected. Write it such that when a reader reads it, he or she can "hear" that voice in his or her head.
Students received a paste-in for checking a short story as you revise and edit.
We had writer's workshop during which students were to work on their writing assignments.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
May 13, 2008
May 13, 2008
Students wrote a creative response to an optical illusion on the overhead. This isn't quite the same image, but if you were absent, you should write about this one. Some students wrote creative descriptions (using simile and metaphor). Others wrote poems or brief stories.
Students saw samples of the "Class Final." See the nearby post that describes that assignment.
We read another tall tale. A tall tale --
is humorous, exaggerated
includes unlikely events
includes characters who try to solve problems
uses language that is colorful (not inappropriate, though) and informal
has a memorable ending
Students used Writer's Workshop time to work on
The tall tale if needed
The "Underland" story
The class final -- We'll be in the computer lab only on May 19th.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Creative Writing Class Final
Creative Writing Class Final
We will be in the computer lab May 19 – That will be our only day,
so have your rough drafts all prepared to type up that day.
Absolute deadline = May 23, 2008
You will create a brief summary of what you learned in this class (and from other sources and experiences) for students who want to learn more about writing.
Look through your notebook for ideas to write about, and to jog your memory about what we’ve done.
Format: Create an easy-to-read format using titles, headings, subheadings, lists, clear explanations, etc. (If you have extra time, after you’ve written this, you could add illustrations.)
Audience: Other junior high students and, of course, your teacher.
Purpose: To share what you know about writing, both to show the teacher what you know, and to create a useful resource for other writers.
Voice: Let your own voice shine through. It would help to use examples from your own writing!
Title: Title this something like “Advice for Writers.” Save it on the computer as [yourlastname]advice.
Print?: Print it out when you’re done, or if you want to take it home to revise, edit, etc.
Cover these subjects:
Part A. _____ /20 At least ten well-explained hints for writers. What could you tell other students that would most help them with their writing? (For example: What can one do about writer’s block? When or where are the best times to write? Do you have any hints for using the computer, or recommendations for types of paper or writing instruments? How do you get ideas? How do you organize a plot for a story? How can you please teachers with your writing? What hints do you have for revising and editing?)
Part B. _____/15 What could you tell other students about what they need to know to write
three (3) of the following (5 points each):
a) poetry
b) short stories
c) a novel
d) a children’s book
e) essays – including telling about personal experiences
f) reports such as those in newspapers, etc.
g) songs or plays
= ______/35 Subtotal #1 Be honest and positive!
You will write the parts explained above. You’ll get a grade for writing them. You’ll also get a grade based on how well you wrote them according to these “six traits plus one.” We’ll average the two for a total grade.
“Six Traits Plus One” Grading for Your Final
5 4 3 2 1 Comments (See also your cardstock sheet for Six Traits Plus One)
Ideas and Content
Organization
Voice
Sentence Fluency
Word Choice
Conventions
Presentation Type this!
_____/35 Subtotal #2 Total = (subtotal 1 + subtotal 2) divided by 2 = _______________
_____/5 Draft is neatly stapled (with one staple) to the top of this sheet.
_____/ Extra credit for outstanding creativity and/or clarity (clearness, easy for the reader to understand).
Examples plucked from this assignment as done by past (and passed) students:
Example about Editing:
the donkee was standing, By the Park. How many spelling errors or punctuation errors did you find in that sentence? That was a few too many errors for me. Didn’t that just make you wince when you read it? Did it make you notice all the mistakes too? Whenever I read a mistake in someone’s writing, I always look more carefully for what other mistakes they could have in their writing. . . . (Beth Johnson)
Example about Writing A Novel:
When writing a novel, always remember, details, details, details. Always have the reader know exactly where they are. When they read your book, they’re entering your world. Your details are essential for them to know where they are and not get lost. . . . Also make sure that you give the characters strong personalities. What’s really fun is to base your characters on people you know. Don’t use their names though! It’s fun to base them on people you know because you can sneak in little jokes that only they and yourself would understand.. . .
And of course, never forget, HAVE FUN!!! (Alina Rae)
Example about Writing Poetry:
“Poetry allows the human soul to speak.” – Carolyn Forche
When you write poetry, it should come from your heart. Poetry is one of the best ways to express your feelings and emotions. For me, poetry is a way of relieving stress and relaxing.. . .
If you plan on writing a certain type of poem, like a haiku or a limerick, there are certain rules you have to follow. . . . But, you don’t always have to follow a certain outline. . . . but remember, it’s all about how it looks on the page. (Savannah Lewis)
Example from tips for writers:
For writer’s block, go back and read your old stories and poems. It really helps, believe me. That’s just one more reason to save all your writing. (Gage Briggs)
Example from So You Want to Be a Writer:
Are you willing to face the ink-stained hands, the long toiling nights, and napkins filled with ideas? Then perhaps writing is for you. Writing can be a long and strenuous process, but when you see your characters begin to come alive, the strenuous process is worth it. Here is a collection of helpful hints to get you started on your writing career. (Megan Hatch)
We will be in the computer lab May 19 – That will be our only day,
so have your rough drafts all prepared to type up that day.
Absolute deadline = May 23, 2008
You will create a brief summary of what you learned in this class (and from other sources and experiences) for students who want to learn more about writing.
Look through your notebook for ideas to write about, and to jog your memory about what we’ve done.
Format: Create an easy-to-read format using titles, headings, subheadings, lists, clear explanations, etc. (If you have extra time, after you’ve written this, you could add illustrations.)
Audience: Other junior high students and, of course, your teacher.
Purpose: To share what you know about writing, both to show the teacher what you know, and to create a useful resource for other writers.
Voice: Let your own voice shine through. It would help to use examples from your own writing!
Title: Title this something like “Advice for Writers.” Save it on the computer as [yourlastname]advice.
Print?: Print it out when you’re done, or if you want to take it home to revise, edit, etc.
Cover these subjects:
Part A. _____ /20 At least ten well-explained hints for writers. What could you tell other students that would most help them with their writing? (For example: What can one do about writer’s block? When or where are the best times to write? Do you have any hints for using the computer, or recommendations for types of paper or writing instruments? How do you get ideas? How do you organize a plot for a story? How can you please teachers with your writing? What hints do you have for revising and editing?)
Part B. _____/15 What could you tell other students about what they need to know to write
three (3) of the following (5 points each):
a) poetry
b) short stories
c) a novel
d) a children’s book
e) essays – including telling about personal experiences
f) reports such as those in newspapers, etc.
g) songs or plays
= ______/35 Subtotal #1 Be honest and positive!
You will write the parts explained above. You’ll get a grade for writing them. You’ll also get a grade based on how well you wrote them according to these “six traits plus one.” We’ll average the two for a total grade.
“Six Traits Plus One” Grading for Your Final
5 4 3 2 1 Comments (See also your cardstock sheet for Six Traits Plus One)
Ideas and Content
Organization
Voice
Sentence Fluency
Word Choice
Conventions
Presentation Type this!
_____/35 Subtotal #2 Total = (subtotal 1 + subtotal 2) divided by 2 = _______________
_____/5 Draft is neatly stapled (with one staple) to the top of this sheet.
_____/ Extra credit for outstanding creativity and/or clarity (clearness, easy for the reader to understand).
Examples plucked from this assignment as done by past (and passed) students:
Example about Editing:
the donkee was standing, By the Park. How many spelling errors or punctuation errors did you find in that sentence? That was a few too many errors for me. Didn’t that just make you wince when you read it? Did it make you notice all the mistakes too? Whenever I read a mistake in someone’s writing, I always look more carefully for what other mistakes they could have in their writing. . . . (Beth Johnson)
Example about Writing A Novel:
When writing a novel, always remember, details, details, details. Always have the reader know exactly where they are. When they read your book, they’re entering your world. Your details are essential for them to know where they are and not get lost. . . . Also make sure that you give the characters strong personalities. What’s really fun is to base your characters on people you know. Don’t use their names though! It’s fun to base them on people you know because you can sneak in little jokes that only they and yourself would understand.. . .
And of course, never forget, HAVE FUN!!! (Alina Rae)
Example about Writing Poetry:
“Poetry allows the human soul to speak.” – Carolyn Forche
When you write poetry, it should come from your heart. Poetry is one of the best ways to express your feelings and emotions. For me, poetry is a way of relieving stress and relaxing.. . .
If you plan on writing a certain type of poem, like a haiku or a limerick, there are certain rules you have to follow. . . . But, you don’t always have to follow a certain outline. . . . but remember, it’s all about how it looks on the page. (Savannah Lewis)
Example from tips for writers:
For writer’s block, go back and read your old stories and poems. It really helps, believe me. That’s just one more reason to save all your writing. (Gage Briggs)
Example from So You Want to Be a Writer:
Are you willing to face the ink-stained hands, the long toiling nights, and napkins filled with ideas? Then perhaps writing is for you. Writing can be a long and strenuous process, but when you see your characters begin to come alive, the strenuous process is worth it. Here is a collection of helpful hints to get you started on your writing career. (Megan Hatch)
May 9, 2008
May 9, 2008
Today we read from an example book for an Underland story: Gregor the Overlander which the first in a series of five books. Students should be working on developing their underland stories.
We also used that book to look at developing a character, and ways an author gives the reader information about the character.
Students received their class final assignment which is due by May 23rd at the latest. We will have one computer day -- May 19 to type these up in the computer lab. See the assignment in a nearby blog.
Monday, May 5, 2008
May 5, 2008
We worked on the books for the kindergarten children. These books are looking great! The books must be finished by the end of the period today. We will be going to the kindergarten to deliver and read the books on May 7.
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