Room 34's history of fine tuning an average report happens during an hour of drenching rain outside... but who needs sun? We're bringing excitement inside. We've read great examples of engaging reports (Think Ranger Rick Magazine) , discussing the value of catchy titles, great pictures, and clever ways of saying true facts. Now we've written our best titles and introductory paragraphs to "hook" the reader into wanting to read more of our articles. What's a good piece of writing worth??? A MILLION DOLLARS! What do you think?
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NEXT STEP!
I noticed that many reports (above) started with a question, and perhaps too much information rather than "teasing the reader with the hook that promises more exciting information to come." So.... We're moving to stronger verbs and fewer words to tantalize the reader...
The following papers are not finished, but you can begin to see the "game change" ... these children are becoming stronger writers! Again... we're writing opening paragraphs to lure the reader further into our report.
These are "second drafts" -- not finished copies.
These are "second drafts" -- not finished copies.
STEP 3: Use your skills to write a powerful initial paragraph that leads reader into a dilemma, some rising action, a climax, and conclusion.
March Writing - The following is done completely by our classroom writers. They were in each in charge of researching an insect (given about 40 min.), Following that task, each student was expected to write and edit their own research report. Students were given a 40 minute time block for that task. I did not help in any way, and I must say... they done me proud!