Page 87 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade8_Flipbook

Writing Workshop 7 (continued)
Using verbals allows writers to change the emphasis in a sentence and to create variety in sentence structure. For example, consider the difference between these two sentences, keeping in mind that what comes first in an English-language sentence usually receives emphasis.
Being weightless is a sensation hard to fathom.
It is hard to fathom the sensation of weightlessness.
Verbals can also be used to combine sentences, varying sentence openings and types to improve flow.
She laughed and giggled as she wrote. She imagined how her readers would respond to the story.
Laughing and giggling as she wrote, she imagined how her readers would respond to the story.
12. Write the following sentences on a separate sheet of paper.
a. Write a sentence that uses a gerund as the subject of a sentence. b. Write a sentence that uses a gerund as the object of a sentence. c. Write a sentence that uses a participle that ends in –ing.
d. Write a sentence that uses a participle that ends in –ed.
e. Write a sentence that uses an infinitive as a noun.
f. Write a sentence that uses an infinitive as an adjective.
g. Write a sentence that uses an infinitive as an adverb.
13. Consider how you can use verbals to strengthen your class-constructed essay. Identify several sentences that could be revised to use verbals.
Editing
After making revisions with the class, polish the final draft of the narrative essay. Consider the elements listed in the Language category of the Scoring Guide, and correct any errors you find.
ACTIVITY 3
Writing a Nonfiction Narrative with a Peer
WRITING PROMPT: With input from a writing partner, write a nonfiction narrative that relates an experience that had a significant impact on you. In particular, consider how other eighth graders could benefit from hearing about this experience. As you craft your essay, think about what makes a story engaging and entertaining, and refer to the characteristics of a good narrative listed in Activity 2 on page 5.
Refer to the Scoring Guide at the end of the Workshop to help you understand where to focus your attention and efforts.
8 SpringBoard® Writing Workshop with Grammar Activities Grade 8
© 2017 College Board. All rights reserved.