Page 30 - SpringBoard_ELA_CA_Smapler_Flipbook

aCTIvITy 3.6
continued
Teacher
Use the following list of characteristics of formal style to inform your writing.
my Notes
Formal Style
DO:
• Use precise nouns and pronouns (no vague pronoun references). Example: The author of the editorial suggests discontinuing the use of plastic bags.
• Use active verbs.
Example: Please refrain from talking.
• Use diction specific to the topic and precise for the audience. Example: During the debate, the student did not provide enough evidence to support her claim.
DO NOT:
• Do not use vague pronoun references.
Example: It says to stop using plastic bags. (Who is “it”?)
• Do not use contractions. Example: Please don’t talk.
• Do not use slang words.
Example: What she said was totally bogus.
2. Why do you think formal style is important in argumentative communication?
Using inappropriate language can damage your credibility (sound like you cannot be trusted), undermine your argument (make your opinion sound weak), or alienate your audience (cause the person you are trying to persuade to be uninterested or offended).
Preview
In this activity, you will read a historical letter to analyze its style and tone, and experiment with style and tone in your own writing.
Setting a Purpose for Reading
• As you read the following letter, mark the text for precise nouns, active verbs, and diction specific to the topic and audience.
• Circle unknown words and phrases. Try to determine the meaning of the words by using context clues, word parts, or a dictionary.
Em
Ex
Br
M 9781457304620_TCB_LA_SE_L6_U3_P4.indd 193
Unit 3 • Changing Perspectives 193 13/04/15
4:33 PM
acTIVITY 3.6 continued TO Teacher
Diction specific to the topic is similar to academic or domain-specific vocabulary.
5 Ask students to respond to the question about why formal style is important in argumentation. Discuss how tone is shaped by an author or writer’s style (way of writing and speaking). Use think-pair-share.
6 Before students read “Letter on Thomas Jefferson” by John Adams (1776), ask students for a real-life example of using formal style and to share in small groups and then with the class. Explain to students that the letter they will read is also a real- life example. Students should also identify the reasons and evidence that Adams uses to justify why Jefferson was chosen to draft the Declaration of Independence.
7 Read the Preview and Setting
a Purpose for Reading sections
with your students. Reinforce the importance of precise writing in a formal style to communicate specific ideas.
Leveled Differentiated Instruction
Students may need support analyzing certain words for style and tone. As students begin to read, point out the word inquire.
Guide students to complete
an Author’s Word Choice Analyzer for the word inquire. Ask students to give an example of a time when it would be appropriate to use the word inquire.
Ask students to name another
way to say inquire. With a partner, have them brainstorm five other ways and then identify which ones are appropriate for classroom discussion.
Point out to students that
inquire is an academic word. Have students look for other academic words in the letter. Ask them to explain why the author chose these words.
Unit 3 • Changing Perspectives 193
© 2017 College Board. All rights reserved.
© 2017 College Board. All rights reserved.