This semester, as the course title states, we will focus on writing and language. Specifically, we we focus on three genres--Argument, Analysis/Informative/Explanatory, and Narrative writing. In addition, we will review and study language usage and conventions of standard English. We will also read, read, read with the eye of a writer, looking at mentor texts (strong, professional texts) of each genre, analyzing them to determine the elements of each type of writing, as well as what techniques these authors use that make for good, quality pieces.
You will be working more independently, and will have a choice of which order you want to tackle each genre and task. I will conference and meet with each of you, individually and in small groups, frequently to move through each task. First quarter the tasks are: Argument--Evaluation or Review of a Product, Service, or Experience; Analysis/Informative/Explanatory--Informative Essay About a Complex Process; or Narrative--Fictional Narrative That Develops a Theme (including a Description of Setting).
Each genre and task have a "pathway", or checklist, you will need to follow in order to review, learn and practice the necessary concepts and skills, then apply them to complete each common task.
Here is some basic information for this course and quarter 1:
- Course Overview and Expectations
- General Site and Assignment Information
