Page 148 - SpringBoard_ELD_Grade6_Flipbook

Argumentative Letter Argument Writing
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Step 1: Introduction
In “The First Americans,” Scott Peters wrote a letter to the mayor of Chicago. His letter was an argument for fairer textbooks. He tried to persuade his readers to teach schoolchildren the truth about Native Americans.
Argumentative Letter Writing Prompt:
In this lesson, you will write your own argumentative letter. Your task is to persuade your audience to accept the argument you present. To do this, your letter should:
• State clearly your claim, or overall position on an issue.
• Provide reasons for why your claim should be accepted.
• Include evidence—facts, details, and other information—that supports your reasons.
• Use a formal style and tone to present your argument.
• Include rhetorical appeals, such as logos and pathos, to make your argument
more persuasive.
Step 2: Brainstorming
Work with a partner or small group of classmates to discuss possible topics for your letters. Focus on positive changes you would like to see made. You might, for example, write a letter to your school principal and argue for a change at your school. Or, perhaps your community would benefit from a certain improvement. If so, you could write to the mayor or a government official about it. As you brainstorm, try to think of issues you feel strongly about. What claim would you make for each issue? List them in the left-hand column of the chart.
my notes
Claim
Reasons
Evidence
What is your overall position on the issue?
What important points explain why you make this claim?
What facts, details, and information support your reasons?
Unit 3 • Changing Perspectives • Part 3: Embedded Assessment 125
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