Page 20 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade6_Flipbook

Prewriting
1. Read and mark the writing prompt above to clarify the task.
2. As a class, brainstorm ideas for the class-generated essay, and create a list of possible topics for which two equally strong and reasonable claims can be made.
Sample responses:
More varied lunch menu
More after school sports opportunities
More art and music classes
Adopt or purchase a pet
Participating in volunteer work to benefit others
3. With your class, choose a topic for the essay and write it here. Students’ responses will vary.
4. An argumentative writer must first state an opinion on the topic. This is called a claim. For example, if your topic is “pet ownership,” then a possible claim could be “pet ownership is highly overrated.” Remember that your claim has to be arguable, meaning that it needs to be something that could be reasonably debated.
To present a more convincing argument, a writer must turn a claim into a position, or thesis, by adding his or her judgment and reasoning about that claim. One way to state this thesis is by using “either/or” phrasing as follows:
Although _________(_s_id_e__A_)__________, ____________(s_i_d_e_B_)_________
(explanation) because _________________________.
Use this sentence stem to write the claim for the sample argumentative essay.
Sample responses:
Although pets may be expensive and worrisome, owning pets is beneficial for both mental and physical health.
Although fast food is tasty and convenient, a prepared meal from home is a better choice because it is healthier and cheaper.
5. With your class, brainstorm the two sides to several possible topics for the class essay. Record the two sides of each issue in the left column of the graphic organizer below. Then, write a thesis statement for each that explains why one option is better than another. Use the model above. One example is given.
Writing Workshop 2 • Argumentative Writing 5
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