Last week, students took a test on the story "Rikki Tikki Tavi". It was designed a la MCAS/PARCC style questions in order to embed test-taking practice, and questions were intended for students to demonstrate their understanding of the story as we read and discussed it in class. The final question was an open response (short essay), and based on students' writing, I am differentiating writing practice this week. Some students will be reading additional material on Kipling and the story and writing a group essay based on that; other students are completing an essay exemplar with a partner, and then working on one of two other essay topics. This writing practice is differentiated to accommodate the varying needs within each class. Students will engage in the writing process of brainstorming/outlining, drafting, editing, and revising. As we are working on these essays in class, potentially each student can accomplish all or most of each day's work in class; however, if they need extra time for each part, they will finish it up for homework. Below is an outline of what should be completed each day.
Homework:
Monday: check Aspen for missing assignments and turn in asap.
Tuesday: complete essay organizer
Wednesday: complete roughly half of essay draft
Thursday: complete draft
Friday: revise essay to turn in on Monday (if not completed in class)
