Persuading the Principal: Writing Persuasive Letters About School Issues

Grade Levels

6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade

Course, Subject

Related Academic Standards

Use clear reasons and relevant evidence to support claims, using credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic.

CC.1.4.7.G CC.1.4.7.G

Write arguments to support claims.

CC.1.4.7.I CC.1.4.7.I

Acknowledge alternate or opposing claims and support claim with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic.

CC.1.4.8.G CC.1.4.8.G

Write arguments to support claims.

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Big Ideas

Purpose, topic and audience guide types of writing
Concepts

Various types of writing are distinguished by their characteristics
Competencies

Write persuasive pieces, specific to a purpose and audience, which have a clearly stated position or opinion, with convincing and properly cited evidence that anticipates and counters reader concerns and arguments.

Description

This lesson gives students the opportunity to examine opinion editorials and write their own on school issues. After reading and listening to opinion pieces, students identify strong examples of persuasion and record them on a graphic organizer. Small groups then brainstorm issues in the school that they believe deserve action plans. Each group uses graphic organizers to explore its issue. The group then constructs a letter on that issue. The letter is then edited for grammar and content, typed on a word processor, printed, and delivered to the school principal.

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Persuading the Principal: Writing Persuasive Letters About School Issues

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Persuading the Principal: Writing Persuasive Letters About School Issues