Page 121 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade8_Flipbook

Writing Workshop 10 (continued)
ACTIVITY 2
Writing a Business Letter as a Class
WRITING PROMPT: Pretend that your class is a group of artists working on a large collage of photos entitled “Youth in America.” The photos you plan to use in your collage will be taken by eighth-graders from all over the United States. With your class, write a formal letter to classes of eighth-graders in other schools, requesting that each class send you photos taken by them to be used in the collage. Make sure your letter meets the requirements listed in the learning targets for business and other formal letters. Be sure your letter:
• Communicates the purpose clearly • Maintains a professional tone
• Demonstrates a business context • Follows the prescribed format
• Uses appropriate conventions
Refer to the Scoring Guide for this writing task at the end of the workshop to help you understand where to focus your attention and efforts.
Prewriting
1. Imagine that your class has received the request described in the prompt. What questions do you have about this art collage and the photos you are requested to send? Brainstorm a list of things you’d like to know. After brainstorming individually, you will pair-share your ideas before sharing them with the whole class. Add to your list as you hear classmates’ comments.
2. Working with your classmates and teacher, share questions and decide the answers. This information will help you draft the letter you will write. Generate a list of ways that you might make this idea sound inspiring to other eighth-graders. How might you motivate them to follow through with your request?
3. Copy the graphic organizer onto your own paper. With the class, discuss what will go into the three parts of your business letter. As you discuss the letter, add ideas and information to the graphic organizer.
Business Letter
Beginning
4 SpringBoard® Writing Workshop with Grammar Activities Grade 8
Possible Content
Middle
Ending
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