Page 16 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade8_Flipbook

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WRITING WORKSHOP
Argumentative Writing
Learning Targets
• Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
• Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and
style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
• With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen
writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new
approach, focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.
• Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage
when writing or speaking.
• Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization,
punctuation, and spelling when writing.
• Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading
or listening.
• Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups,
and teacher-led)with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Writing an Argumentative Essay
Argumentative technique is an important skill writers use to influence the attitudes or actions of their intended audience regarding a wide variety of issues. Effective argumentation involves clearly identifying issues, anticipating and responding
to objections, presenting support for a position, and using clear and relevant reasoning to help convince an audience.
As you learn about argumentative writing, you will work with your teacher and with your classmates to construct two argumentative essays. You will then use these models for your own independent writing.
ACTIVITY 1
Discovering the Elements of an Argumentative Essay
Before Reading
1. Review the difference between a claim and a counterclaim. Why will a good, strong claim always carry within it a justifiable counterclaim? Explain how relevant and sufficient evidence is important for convincing the reader to believe a writer’s claim.
During Reading
2. As you read this text, identify the writer’s viewpoint and highlight the claim being made. Underline the evidence that supports that claim. Circle anything that suggests claims that are opposed to the writer’s claims.
LEARNING STRATEGIES
Activating Prior Knowledge, Brainstorming, Think- Pair-Share, Discussion Groups, Close Reading, Sharing and Responding, Marking the Text, Graphic Organizer, Outlining, Drafting, Adding, Deleting, Rearranging, Substituting, Revising Prior Work, Self- Editing, Peer-Editing
Writing Workshop 2 •
Argumentative Writing 1
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