Grade 11 Composition
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
COURSE CURRICULUM
COURSE TITLE: Composition
GRADE LEVEL: 11th
CREATION DATE: 2008
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: A. Students will read informational genres
which enhance their abilities to successfully follow models and research appropriately
assigned or selected topics.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.1.11 A-G, 1.2,11 A-B, 1.3.F
Benchmark/Skills
Reading
1. Students will continue to read
independently.
a) Choose appropriate research material texts
in language arts and throughout all content
areas
b) Analyze the structure of informational
materials with focus on ascertaining how
the author’s purpose is achieved
c) Refine effective reading strategies
(skimming, predicting, close reading,
summarizing, etc.) from a variety of texts
by identifying, describing, evaluating, and
synthesizing ideas to enhance writing,
particularly during the research process
d) Interpret and synthesize what is read and be
able to demonstrate this understanding
through effective use of material
e) Identify and explore new vocabulary using
knowledge of root words, previously
acquired vocabulary, and context
f) Extend root word knowledge to understand
the meaning of texts (See Penncrest
sequential root word list)
Assessment






Regular quizzes on new and
acquired vocabulary
Integration of new words in
student writing
Appropriate and extensive use
of new information
Observable demonstration of
appropriate use of materials
investigated, using rubric
scoring techniques
Quizzes demonstrating ability
to differentiate between
essential and nonessential
information
Individual and group product
presented for assessment based
on rubric
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided resources of
articles and informational texts
Other
MLA Guide (both text and on-line)
Handouts and worksheets (teacher
made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
dictionaries, theasauri
new classroom text with mechanics,
grammar, stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia, World
Book
New Book of Knowledge, Grolier
Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia,
Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana, Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading
techniques, differentiation
techniques among
materials, evaluating
resources strategies,
strategies for
differentiating between
traditional forms and
electronic forms of source
material
Modeling, writing,
assessing, and scoring
techniques
Small group practice in
writing, assessing, scoring
(using teacher developed
and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in
writing, self-assessing,
and self-scoring (using
teacher developed and
PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
Student Resource Center Silver,
Gale. (Includes multicultural,
biography, science, geography, and
humanities components--including
literature components plus
periodicals)
Access PA Power Library, Includes
Ebsco Host: Primary Search or
Middle Search Plus (periodicals),
Associated Press Photo Archive,
SIRS Discoverer Deluxe,
Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch,
NoveList, SIRS Researcher,
Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students to
access a number of resources from
home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: A. Students will read informational genres which
enhance their abilities to successfully follow models and research appropriately assigned or
selected topics.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.1.11 A-G, 1.2,11 A-B, 1.3.F
Benchmark/Skills
Reading
2. Students will continue to read
informational texts, documents, and a
variety of media as well as evaluate their
quality.
a) Distinguish between essential and
nonessential elements
b) Establish and use criteria (factual
information, timeliness, tone, author’s
prejudice) for decision making
c) Differentiate fact from opinion by
using complete and accurate
information, coherent arguments, and
points of view to do so
d) Evaluate arguments to determine
materials’ usefulness for tasks assigned
e) Evaluate task-appropriate materials
f) Demonstrate understanding of reading
materials to support research, through
appropriate use of material in final
product
g) Evaluate media material
h) Explain effect of modification of
discourse based on media and
technology rather than traditional forms
i) Explain differences in purposes based
on presentation material used.
Assessment






Regular quizzes on new and
acquired vocabulary
Integration of new words in
student writing
Appropriate and extensive
use of new information
Observable demonstration of
appropriate use of materials
investigated, using rubric
scoring techniques
Quizzes demonstrating
ability to differentiate
between essential and
nonessential information
Individual and group product
presented for assessment
based on rubric
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided resources of
articles and informational texts
Other
MLA Guide (both text and on-line)
Handouts and worksheets (teacher
made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
Writer’s Inc., dictionaries, theasauri
new classroom text with mechanics,
grammar, stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia, World
Book
New Book of Knowledge, Grolier
Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia,
Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana, Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center Silver,
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading techniques,
differentiation techniques among
materials, evaluating resources
strategies, strategies for
differentiating between
traditional forms and electronic
forms of source material
Modeling, writing, assessing, and
scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
Gale. (Includes multicultural,
biography, science, geography, and
humanities components--including
literature components plus
periodicals)
Access PA Power Library, Includes
Ebsco Host: Primary Search or
Middle Search Plus (periodicals),
Associated Press Photo Archive,
SIRS Discoverer Deluxe,
Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch,
NoveList, SIRS Researcher,
Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students to
access a number of resources from
home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: A. Students will read informational
genres which enhance their abilities to successfully follow models and research
appropriately assigned or selected topics.
Standards: 1.1.11 A-G, 1.2,11 A-B, 1.3.F
Benchmark/Skills
Reading
3. Students will read, analyze, respond
to, and interpret informational texts, as
well as enhance their ability to evaluate
the effectiveness of the writer’s method.
a) Respond critically and analytically
(nonfiction)
Approx. Time Allotment:
Assessment






Regular quizzes on new and
acquired vocabulary
Integration of new words in
student writing
Appropriate and extensive use
of new information
Observable demonstration of
appropriate use of materials
investigated, using rubric
scoring techniques
Quizzes demonstrating ability
to differentiate between
essential and nonessential
information
Individual and group product
presented for assessment
based on rubric
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided resources of
articles and informational
texts
Other
MLA Guide (both text and online)
Handouts and worksheets (teacher
made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
Writer’s Inc., dictionaries,
theasauri
new classroom text with
mechanics, grammar, stylistic, and
usage guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia, World
Book
New Book of Knowledge, Grolier
Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia,
Grolier
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading techniques,
differentiation techniques among
materials, evaluating resources
strategies, strategies for
differentiating between
traditional forms and electronic
forms of source material
Modeling, writing, assessing, and
scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
Encyclopedia Americana, Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center Silver,
Gale. (Includes multicultural,
biography, science, geography,
and humanities components-including literature components
plus periodicals)
Access PA Power Library,
Includes Ebsco Host: Primary
Search or Middle Search Plus
(periodicals), Associated Press
Photo Archive, SIRS Discoverer
Deluxe, Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch,
NoveList, SIRS Researcher,
Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students to
access a number of resources from
home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: A. Students will read informational
genres which enhance their abilities to successfully follow models and research
appropriately assigned or selected topics.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.1.11 A-G, 1.2,11 A-B, 1.3.F
Adaptations/Inclusion
Techniques
Reading
 Reduce the length of writing
assignments
 Reduce number of sources
required
 Extend time parameters
 Offer modified alternative
assignments
 Give advance notice
regarding future
assignments
 Note taking by classmates
for reproduction
 Use computer technology
 Peer tutoring and pairing
 Provide classroom aide
 As per student’s IEP
Enrichment
Strategies







Examining other art
genres using their themes
for writing stimulation
and prompts
Guest speakers (published
authors, journalists)
Independent study
Make given assignments
multi-layered and
multifaceted
Contests (teachergenerated and outside
agencies)
Contributions to school
newspaper and literary
magazine
Writing to out-of-school
sources
Remediation
Strategies




Theme Reader to help oneon-one
Teacher student
conferences
After school support as
needed
Mini lessons on basic skills
Multicultural/
Interdisciplinary Connection
Expository and informational writing skills are essential
in all areas of scholastic endeavor and the working world
as well as the world at large.
The content of student work, both essays and research,
encompasses all areas of interest and learning such as:
Health and science (tobacco use, drug use, abortion,
“twin” research, environmental concerns)
History and global information (immigration policy,
effects of warfare, international internal struggles)
Politics, economics, public policy (highway funding for
bike paths, minority rights, censorship)
Teacher provided materials, resources, and models will
attempt to show sensitivity to and to include examples
which highlight or emphasize areas related to ethnicity
or multicultural interest
Descriptive and narrative writing skills help students
expand their knowledge based on personal interest in
such areas as:
 Architecture
 Art
 Government concerns
 Health concerns
 Hobbies
 Literature
 Mass media
 Movies
 Popular music
 Social concerns
 Sports
 Urban and suburban community design
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: B. Students will master the writing process focusing on the expository and persuasive
domains, with emphases on using the informational texts as support, clarity in language, and correct format.
--(B 2) Students in Advanced Composition and Intermediate Composition will satisfactorily complete a research paper which
encompasses all those research and writing skills previously developed and practiced as well as new skills and strategies learned
within the context of these courses.
In Composition, students will do the same with a paper of considerably shorter length (persuasive essay with research) but
requiring practice and mastery of most of the same skills
--(B 3) Students will continue to practice descriptive and narrative writing skills with emphasis on variety of sentence structure,
diction, and clarity.
Standards: 1.4.11 B-E, 1.5.A-G
Benchmark/Skills
Writing
1. Students will refine and master essays written in
the domains of personal, descriptive, and narrative
writing.
a) Organize thoughts using models and draft
worksheets
b) Plan and/or brainstorm prior to writing
c) Follow models to facilitate practice
d) Write using standard conventions
e) Practice self revising and editing
f) Practice peer revising and editing
g) Use varying writing structures
h) Show logical thinking and clear expression
i) Use precise language, details, and formats
j) Use clarity in writing
k) Use correctly conventions of mechanics, grammar,
and usage as described in RTM Usage Guide
(summer 2001)
Assessment




















Analytical Essays
Bibliography cards
Checklists
Completed research paper
Computer Generated
Writing Projects
Graphic Organizers
Journal entries
Letters
Newspaper, magazine,
pamphlet articles
Note cards
Outlines
Persuasive Essays
Research paper
Rubric--PSSA distributed
Rubrics--teacher generated
Self Evaluation
Teacher Observation
Using texts as models
Weekly essays
Writing folder
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided
resources of articles and
informational texts
Other
MLA Guide (both text and
on-line)
Handouts and worksheets
(teacher made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine
articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
Writer’s Inc., dictionaries,
theasauri
new classroom text with
mechanics, grammar, stylistic,
and usage guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
Approx. Time
Allotment:
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading
techniques, differentiation
techniques among
materials, evaluating
resources strategies,
strategies for
differentiating between
traditional forms and
electronic forms of source
material
Modeling, writing,
assessing, and scoring
techniques
Small group practice in
writing, assessing, scoring
(using teacher developed
and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in
writing, self-assessing,
and self-scoring (using
teacher developed and
PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia,
World Book
New Book of Knowledge,
Grolier
Grolier Multimedia
Encyclopedia, Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana,
Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center
Silver, Gale. (Includes
multicultural, biography,
science, geography, and
humanities components-including literature
components plus periodicals)
Access PA Power Library,
Includes Ebsco Host: Primary
Search or Middle Search Plus
(periodicals), Associated Press
Photo Archive, SIRS
Discoverer Deluxe,
Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch,
NoveList, SIRS Researcher,
Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students
to access a number of
resources from home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: B. Students will master the writing process focusing on the expository and persuasive
domains, with emphases on using the informational texts as support, clarity in language, and correct format.
--(B 2) Students in Advanced Composition and Intermediate Composition will satisfactorily complete a research paper which
encompasses all those research and writing skills previously developed and practiced as well as new skills and strategies learned within
the context of these courses.
In Composition, students will do the same with a paper of considerably shorter length (persuasive essay with research) but
requiring practice and mastery of most of the same skills
--(B 3) Students will continue to practice descriptive and narrative writing skills with emphasis on variety of sentence structure, diction,
and clarity.
Standards: 1.4.11 B-E, 1.5.A-G
Benchmark/Skills
Writing
2. Students will refine and master
persuasive and informational essays in
preparation for writing the research
paper.
a) Organize thoughts using varying
models
b) Plan and/or brainstorm prior to writing
c) Follow models to facilitate practice
d) Practice self-and peer-editing
e) Utilize correct form of that writing type
f) Use a variety of structures in writing
g) Use precise language and details
h) Use text citations to support ideas
i) Use correctly quotation marks,
parentheses, punctuation with citations
j) Synthesize ideas from written material
in both formal and informal essays
k) Maintain a writing folder or portfolio
Assessment




















Analytical Essays
Bibliography cards
Checklists
Completed research paper
Computer Generated Writing
Projects
Graphic Organizers
Journal entries
Letters
Newspaper, magazine, pamphlet
articles
Note cards
Outlines
Persuasive Essays
Research paper
Rubric--PSSA distributed
Rubrics--teacher generated
Self Evaluation
Teacher Observation
Using texts as models
Weekly essays
Writing folder
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided
resources of articles and
informational texts
Other
MLA Guide (both text and
on-line)
Handouts and worksheets
(teacher made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine
articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
Writer’s Inc., dictionaries,
theasauri
new classroom text with
mechanics, grammar,
stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
Approx. Time
Allotment:
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading techniques,
differentiation techniques among
materials, evaluating resources
strategies, strategies for
differentiating between
traditional forms and electronic
forms of source material
Modeling, writing, assessing, and
scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia,
World Book
New Book of Knowledge,
Grolier
Grolier Multimedia
Encyclopedia, Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana,
Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center
Silver, Gale. (Includes
multicultural, biography,
science, geography, and
humanities components-including literature
components plus periodicals)
Access PA Power Library,
Includes Ebsco Host:
Primary Search or Middle
Search Plus (periodicals),
Associated Press Photo
Archive, SIRS Discoverer
Deluxe, Searchasaurus,
Access PA Database, AltHealth Watch, NoveList,
SIRS Researcher, Facts.com
RTM has capacity for
students to access a number
of resources from home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: B. Students will master the writing process focusing on the expository and persuasive
domains, with emphases on using the informational texts as support, clarity in language, and correct format.
--(B 2) Students in Advanced Composition and Intermediate Composition will satisfactorily complete a research paper which
encompasses all those research and writing skills previously developed and practiced as well as new skills and strategies learned within
the context of these courses.
In Composition, students will do the same with a paper of considerably shorter length (persuasive essay with research) but
requiring practice and mastery of most of the same skills
--(B 3) Students will continue to practice descriptive and narrative writing skills with emphasis on variety of sentence structure, diction,
and clarity.
Standards: 1.4.11 B-E, 1.5.A-G
Benchmark/Skills
Writing
3. Students in all composition classes
will engage in writing formal and
informal pieces of a practical nature to
continue skills’ practice in “real world”
situations.
a) + Create and write letters for specific
purposes as required
b) For example: writing to a public
official, responding to a newspaper
article or editorial, writing to request
information, praising or complaining
about a product or service
Assessment




















Analytical Essays
Bibliography cards
Checklists
Completed research paper
Computer Generated Writing
Projects
Graphic Organizers
Journal entries
Letters
Newspaper, magazine,
pamphlet articles
Note cards
Outlines
Persuasive Essays
Research paper
Rubric--PSSA distributed
Rubrics--teacher generated
Self Evaluation
Teacher Observation
Using texts as models
Weekly essays
Writing folder
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided resources of
articles and informational texts
Other
RTM Usage Guide (summer 2001)
MLA Guide (both text and on-line)
Handouts and worksheets (teacher
made)
Previous student work (for modeling
and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as: Writer’s
Inc., dictionaries, theasauri
new classroom text with mechanics,
grammar, stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
Approx. Time
Allotment:
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading techniques,
differentiation techniques
among materials, evaluating
resources strategies,
strategies for differentiating
between traditional forms and
electronic forms of source
material
Modeling, writing, assessing,
and scoring techniques
Small group practice in
writing, assessing, scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and selfscoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
World Book Encyclopedia, World
Book
New Book of Knowledge, Grolier
Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia,
Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana, Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center Silver, Gale.
(Includes multicultural, biography,
science, geography, and humanities
components--including literature
components plus periodicals)
Access PA Power Library, Includes
Ebsco Host: Primary Search or Middle
Search Plus (periodicals), Associated
Press Photo Archive, SIRS Discoverer
Deluxe, Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch, NoveList,
SIRS Researcher, Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students to
access a number of resources from
home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: B. Students will master the writing process focusing on the expository and persuasive
domains, with emphases on using the informational texts as support, clarity in language, and correct format.
--(B 2) Students in Advanced Composition and Intermediate Composition will satisfactorily complete a research paper which
encompasses all those research and writing skills previously developed and practiced as well as new skills and strategies learned
within the context of these courses.
In Composition, students will do the same with a paper of considerably shorter length (persuasive essay with research) but
requiring practice and mastery of most of the same skills
--(B 3) Students will continue to practice descriptive and narrative writing skills with emphasis on variety of sentence structure,
diction, and clarity.
Standards: 1.4.11 B-E, 1.5.A-G
Benchmark/Skills
Writing
4. Students enrolled in Intermediate
Composition and Advanced Composition
will:
a) Create and write college essays for
practice and to begin a portfolio for
college admissions’ processes
Assessment




















Analytical Essays
Bibliography cards
Checklists
Completed research paper
Computer Generated Writing
Projects
Graphic Organizers
Journal entries
Letters
Newspaper, magazine, pamphlet
articles
Note cards
Outlines
Persuasive Essays
Research paper
Rubric--PSSA distributed
Rubrics--teacher generated
Self Evaluation
Teacher Observation
Using texts as models
Weekly essays
Writing folder
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided
resources of articles and
informational texts
Other
MLA Guide (both text and
on-line)
Handouts and worksheets
(teacher made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine
articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:.,
dictionaries, theasauri
new classroom text with
mechanics, grammar,
stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
Approx. Time
Allotment:
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading techniques,
differentiation techniques among
materials, evaluating resources
strategies, strategies for
differentiating between
traditional forms and electronic
forms of source material
Modeling, writing, assessing, and
scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia,
World Book
New Book of Knowledge,
Grolier
Grolier Multimedia
Encyclopedia, Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana,
Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center
Silver, Gale. (Includes
multicultural, biography,
science, geography, and
humanities components-including literature
components plus periodicals)
Access PA Power Library,
Includes Ebsco Host:
Primary Search or Middle
Search Plus (periodicals),
Associated Press Photo
Archive, SIRS Discoverer
Deluxe, Searchasaurus,
Access PA Database, AltHealth Watch, NoveList,
SIRS Researcher, Facts.com
RTM has capacity for
students to access a number
of resources from home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: B. Students will master the writing process focusing on the expository and persuasive
domains, with emphases on using the informational texts as support, clarity in language, and correct format.
--(B 2) Students in Advanced Composition and Intermediate Composition will satisfactorily complete a research paper which
encompasses all those research and writing skills previously developed and practiced as well as new skills and strategies learned within
the context of these courses.
In Composition, students will do the same with a paper of considerably shorter length (persuasive essay with research) but
requiring practice and mastery of most of the same skills
--(B 3) Students will continue to practice descriptive and narrative writing skills with emphasis on variety of sentence structure, diction,
and clarity.
Standards: 1.4.11 B-E, 1.5.A-G
Benchmark/Skills
Writing
5. Additional “real world” writing may
include:
a) + Engage in some creative writing
assignments per student interest,
following conventions of the genre
selected
b) Write a personal resume utilizing all
aspects of the writing process
Assessment




















Analytical Essays
Bibliography cards
Checklists
Completed research paper
Computer Generated Writing
Projects
Graphic Organizers
Journal entries
Letters
Newspaper, magazine, pamphlet
articles
Note cards
Outlines
Persuasive Essays
Research paper
Rubric--PSSA distributed
Rubrics--teacher generated
Self Evaluation
Teacher Observation
Using texts as models
Weekly essays
Writing folder
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided resources of
articles and informational texts
Other
RTM Usage Guide (summer 2001)
MLA Guide (both text and on-line)
Handouts and worksheets (teacher
made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as: Writer’s
Inc., dictionaries, theasauri
new classroom text with mechanics,
grammar, stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia, World
Book
Approx. Time
Allotment:
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading techniques,
differentiation techniques
among materials, evaluating
resources strategies,
strategies for differentiating
between traditional forms and
electronic forms of source
material
Modeling, writing, assessing,
and scoring techniques
Small group practice in
writing, assessing, scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and selfscoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
New Book of Knowledge, Grolier
Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia,
Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana, Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center Silver,
Gale. (Includes multicultural,
biography, science, geography, and
humanities components--including
literature components plus
periodicals)
Access PA Power Library, Includes
Ebsco Host: Primary Search or
Middle Search Plus (periodicals),
Associated Press Photo Archive,
SIRS Discoverer Deluxe,
Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch,
NoveList, SIRS Researcher,
Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students to
access a number of resources from
home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: B. Students will master the writing process focusing on the expository and
persuasive domains, with emphases on using the informational texts as support, clarity in language, and correct format.
--(B 2) Students in Advanced Composition and Intermediate Composition will satisfactorily complete a research paper
which encompasses all those research and writing skills previously developed and practiced as well as new skills and
strategies learned within the context of these courses.
In Composition, students will do the same with a paper of considerably shorter length (persuasive essay with
research) but requiring practice and mastery of most of the same skills
--(B 3) Students will continue to practice descriptive and narrative writing skills with emphasis on variety of sentence
structure, diction, and clarity.
Standards: 1.4.11 B-E, 1.5.A-G
Benchmark/Skills
Writing
6. Students will master mechanics and
conventions of writing.
a) Use complete sentences
b) Follow grammar rules
c) Use controlled and /or subtle
organizational techniques (logical
order, effective introduction and
conclusion)
d) Use correct spelling
e) Revise
f) Edit using the conventions of language
g) Write using well-developed content
appropriate for topic
h) Write with a command of the stylistic
aspects of composition (different types
and lengths of sentences, precise
language)
Assessment




















Analytical Essays
Bibliography cards
Checklists
Completed research paper
Computer Generated Writing
Projects
Graphic Organizers
Journal entries
Letters
Newspaper, magazine,
pamphlet articles
Note cards
Outlines
Persuasive Essays
Research paper
Rubric--PSSA distributed
Rubrics--teacher generated
Self Evaluation
Teacher Observation
Using texts as models
Weekly essays
Writing folder
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology
 Teacher provided resources of
articles and informational texts
Other
RTM Usage Guide (summer
2001)
MLA Guide (both text and on-line)
Handouts and worksheets (teacher
made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
Writer’s Inc., dictionaries, theasauri
new classroom text with mechanics,
grammar, stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
Approx. Time Allotment:
Instructional Strategies




Whole class instruction:
Modeling reading techniques,
differentiation techniques among
materials, evaluating resources
strategies, strategies for
differentiating between
traditional forms and electronic
forms of source material
Modeling, writing, assessing, and
scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubric)
Grade 11 Composition
World Book Encyclopedia, World
Book
New Book of Knowledge, Grolier
Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia,
Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana, Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center Silver,
Gale. (Includes multicultural,
biography, science, geography, and
humanities components--including
literature components plus
periodicals)
Access PA Power Library, Includes
Ebsco Host: Primary Search or
Middle Search Plus (periodicals),
Associated Press Photo Archive,
SIRS Discoverer Deluxe,
Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch,
NoveList, SIRS Researcher,
Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students to
access a number of resources from
home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: B. Students will master the writing process focusing on the expository and persuasive
domains, with emphases on using the informational texts as support, clarity in language, and correct format.
--(B 2) Students in Advanced Composition and Intermediate Composition will satisfactorily complete a research paper which
encompasses all those research and writing skills previously developed and practiced as well as new skills and strategies learned
within the context of these courses.
In Composition, students will do the same with a paper of considerably shorter length (persuasive essay with research) but
requiring practice and mastery of most of the same skills
--(B 3) Students will continue to practice descriptive and narrative writing skills with emphasis on variety of sentence structure,
diction, and clarity.
Standards: 1.4.11 B-E, 1.5.A-G
Adaptations/Inclusion
Techniques
Writing
 Reduce the length of
writing assignments
 Reduce number of sources
required
 Extend time parameters
 Offer modified alternative
assignments
 Give advance notice
regarding future
assignments
 Note taking by classmates
for reproduction
 Use computer technology
 Peer tutoring and pairing
 Provide classroom aide
 As per student’s IEP
Enrichment
Strategies







Examining other art
genres using their
themes for writing
stimulation and prompts
Guest speakers
(published authors,
journalists)
Independent study
Make given assignments
multi-layered and
multifaceted
Contests (teachergenerated and outside
agencies)
Contributions to school
newspaper and literary
magazine
Writing to out-of-school
sources
Remediation
Strategies




Theme Reader to help oneon-one
Teacher student
conferences
After school support as
needed
Mini lessons on basic skills
Approx. Time
Allotment:
Multicultural/
Interdisciplinary Connection
Expository and informational writing skills are essential in
all areas of scholastic endeavor and the working world as
well as the world at large.
The content of student work, both essays and research,
encompasses all areas of interest and learning such as:
Health and science (tobacco use, drug use, abortion,
“twin” research, environmental concerns)
History and global information (immigration policy,
effects of warfare, international internal struggles)
Politics, economics, public policy (highway funding for
bike paths, minority rights, censorship)
Teacher provided materials, resources, and models will
attempt to show sensitivity to and to include examples
which highlight or emphasize areas related to ethnicity or
multicultural interest
Descriptive and narrative writing skills help students
expand their knowledge based on personal interest in such
areas as:
 Architecture
 Art
 Government concerns
 Health concerns
 Hobbies
 Literature
 Mass media
Grade 11 Composition





Movies
Popular music
Social concerns
Sports
Urban and suburban community design
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: C. Students will develop appropriate and
effective skills in facets of oral communication which enhance study and research through
collaborative efforts.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.6.11 A, D, F
Benchmark/Skills
Speaking and Listening
a) Students will practice speaking and listening.
b) Participate in large and small group discussion.
c) Share writing orally, both in formal and informal
settings
d) Take notes from lectures, and media presentations
e) Practice polite social conventions in regard to
speaking and listening
f) Ask relevant questions (of teacher and classmates)
g) Initiate discussion
h) Summarize others’ points
i) Demonstrate awareness of negative or positive
stereotypes through language
Assessment



self evaluation
group "check-out" form for
group assessment
teacher observation
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided
resources of articles and
informational texts
Other
RTM Usage Guide (summer
2001)
MLA Guide (both text and
on-line)
Handouts and worksheets
(teacher made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine
articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
Writer’s Inc., dictionaries,
theasauri
new classroom text with
mechanics, grammar, stylistic,
and usage guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
Instructional Strategies

Modeling
Grade 11 Composition
World Book Encyclopedia,
World Book
New Book of Knowledge,
Grolier
Grolier Multimedia
Encyclopedia, Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana,
Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors, Gale
Student Resource Center
Silver, Gale. (Includes
multicultural, biography,
science, geography, and
humanities components-including literature
components plus periodicals)
Access PA Power Library,
Includes Ebsco Host: Primary
Search or Middle Search Plus
(periodicals), Associated Press
Photo Archive, SIRS
Discoverer Deluxe,
Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health Watch,
NoveList, SIRS Researcher,
Facts.com
RTM has capacity for students
to access a number of
resources from home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: C. Students will develop appropriate and
effective skills in facets of oral communication which enhance study and research through
collaborative efforts.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.6.11 A, D, F
Adaptations/Inclusion
Techniques
Speaking and Listening
 Reduce the length of writing
assignments
 Reduce number of sources required
 Extend time parameters
 Offer modified alternative assignments
 Give advance notice regarding future
assignments
 Note taking by classmates for
reproduction
 Use computer technology
 Peer tutoring and pairing
 Provide classroom aide
 As per student’s IEP
Enrichment
Strategies







Examining other art genres using
their themes for writing stimulation
and prompts
Guest speakers (published authors,
journalists)
Independent study
Make given assignments multilayered and multifaceted
Contests (teacher-generated and
outside agencies)
Contributions to school newspaper
and literary magazine
Writing to out-of-school sources
Remediation
Strategies




Theme Reader to help
one-on-one
Teacher student
conferences
After school support as
needed
Mini lessons on basic
skill
Multicultural/
Interdisciplinary Connection
Expository and informational writing
skills are essential in all areas of
scholastic endeavor and the working
world as well as the world at large.
The content of student work, both
essays and research, encompasses all
areas of interest and learning such as:
Health and science (tobacco use, drug
use, abortion, “twin” research,
environmental concerns)
History and global information
(immigration policy, effects of
warfare, international internal
struggles)
Politics, economics, public policy
(highway funding for bike paths,
minority rights, censorship)
Teacher provided materials,
resources, and models will attempt to
show sensitivity to and to include
examples which highlight or
emphasize areas related to ethnicity or
multicultural interest
Descriptive and narrative writing
skills help students expand their
knowledge based on personal interest
in such areas as:
 Architecture
 Art
 Government concerns
 Health concerns
Grade 11 Composition








Hobbies
Literature
Mass media
Movies
Popular music
Social concerns
Sports
Urban and suburban community
design
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: D. Students will master the basic as well as the
sophisticated elements of the research process.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.8.11 all
Benchmark/Skills
Research
1. Students in Advanced
Composition and Intermediate
Composition will complete a research
paper which meets the requirements
of the standard research paper.
a) Select appropriate topic
b) Use appropriate and correct
retrieval strategies for research
c) Master accessing information
using a variety of formats
d) Prepare, organize and use
bibliography cards, understanding
their purposes in the research
project
e) Organize and use note cards to
collect information and to write
paper
f) Organize logically, using
techniques demonstrated or
modeled
g) Use outlining skills to create
paper(s) outline(s)
h) Create several rough drafts toward
goal of paper completion
i) Revise (individually and peer)
j) Edit (individually and peer)
k) Include citations in paper,
perfecting form
l) Create a works cited or
bibliography page without error
Assessment



Regular demonstration by students of work inprocess as well as final products
Satisfactory completion of practice
assessments (not evaluated except for
completion)
Assignments offered in each writing domain
which include:
Composition
4+ personal
2+ descriptive
1+ narrative
1+ persuasive
Advanced and Intermediate
Composition
2+ personal/ narrative/
description plus a number
of practice assignments
1+ informational
2+ persuasive
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology




Teacher provided
resources of articles
and informational
texts
Teacher provided
models of student
created papers
Internet and all
electronic sources
(see original
document)
Library resources
(see original
document)
Instructional Strategies





Research Paper assessments to include (this list
not exclusive)
Regular demonstration of skills during research
writing process
Completion of research assignment including use
of all research strategies, writing strategies,
mechanics and convention strategies
Rubric evaluation of all steps in process
Rubric evaluation of completed project
Whole class instruction which
includes: Modeling reading
techniques, differentiation
techniques among materials,
evaluating resources strategies,
strategies for differentiating
between traditional forms and
electronic forms of source
material
Modeling writing, assessing,
and scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using
teacher developed and PSSA
rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubrics)
Student-teacher individual
conferences along each step of
the way, including seeking
sources, checking bibliography
cards, checking note cards,
reading and offering
suggestions for revision on
intermediate drafts, editing of
bibliographic information, and
presentation using teacher
created rubric
Grade 11 Composition
Project requirements (minimum)
Intermediate Composition
6-8 page paper
8 sources --5 used in paper
7 citations included
Advanced Composition
8-10 page paper
10 sources --7 used in paper
10 citations included
In Advanced Composition and Intermediate
Composition, the research paper must be
completed and turned in on time or the student will
fail the course.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: D. Students will master the basic as well as the
sophisticated elements of the research process.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.8.11 all
Benchmark/Skills
Research
2. Students will use and master all
additional research skills.
a) Master searching for information
effectively and efficiently
b) Differentiate between authoritative
and non-authoritative sources
c) Practice and demonstrate skillful
note taking techniques
d) Reevaluate research questions and
decide if process needs repetition
e) Cite correctly
f) Format paper correctly per RTM
Usage Guide and/or teacher
guidelines
Assessment



Regular demonstration by students of work
in-process as well as final products
Satisfactory completion of practice
assessments (not evaluated except for
completion)
Assignments offered in each writing domain
which include:
Composition
4+ personal
2+ descriptive
1+ narrative
1+ persuasive
Advanced and Intermediate
Composition
2+ personal/ narrative/
description plus a number
of practice assignments
1+ informational
2+ persuasive
Research Paper assessments to include (this list
not exclusive)
Regular demonstration of skills during research
writing process
Completion of research assignment including use
of all research strategies, writing strategies,
mechanics and convention strategies
Rubric evaluation of all steps in process
Rubric evaluation of completed project
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology

Teacher provided
resources of articles
and informational
texts
Other
RTM Usage Guide
(summer 2001)
MLA Guide (both text
and on-line)
Handouts and worksheets
(teacher made)
Previous student work
(for modeling and
comparison)
Newspaper and magazine
articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such
as: Writer’s Inc.,
dictionaries, theasauri
new classroom text with
mechanics, grammar,
stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Instructional Strategies





Whole class instruction which
includes: Modeling reading
techniques, differentiation
techniques among materials,
evaluating resources strategies,
strategies for differentiating
between traditional forms and
electronic forms of source
material
Modeling writing, assessing,
and scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using
teacher developed and PSSA
rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubrics)
Student-teacher individual
conferences along each step of
the way, including seeking
sources, checking bibliography
cards, checking note cards,
reading and offering
suggestions for revision on
intermediate drafts, editing of
bibliographic information, and
presentation using teacher
created rubric
Grade 11 Composition
Project requirements (minimum)
Intermediate Composition
6-8 page paper
8 sources --5 used in paper
7 citations included
Advanced Composition
8-10 page paper
10 sources --7 used in paper
10 citations included
In Advanced Composition and Intermediate
Composition, the research paper must be
completed and turned in on time or the student
will fail the course.
Online Sources:
World Book
Encyclopedia, World
Book
New Book of Knowledge,
Grolier
Grolier Multimedia
Encyclopedia, Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana,
Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors,
Gale
Student Resource Center
Silver, Gale. (Includes
multicultural, biography,
science, geography, and
humanities components-including literature
components plus
periodicals)
Access PA Power
Library, Includes Ebsco
Host: Primary Search or
Middle Search Plus
(periodicals), Associated
Press Photo Archive,
SIRS Discoverer Deluxe,
Searchasaurus, Access PA
Database, Alt-Health
Watch, NoveList, SIRS
Researcher, Facts.com
RTM has capacity for
students to access a
number of resources from
home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: D. Students will master the basic as well as the
sophisticated elements of the research process.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.8.11 all
Benchmark/Skills
Research
3. Students in Composition will
complete a persuasive paper which
includes citations and bibliography.
a) Select appropriate topic
b) Use appropriate and correct retrieval
strategies for research
c) Practice use of bibliography cards
which contain appropriate and
useable information
d) Use outlining skills to create
paper(s) outline(s)
e) Organize logically, using techniques
demonstrated or modeled
f) Create at least one rough draft
toward goal of paper completion
g) Revise (individually and peer)
h) Edit (individually and peer)
i) Include citations in paper,
perfecting form
j) Create a works cited or bibliography
page without error
Assessment



Regular demonstration by students of
work in-process as well as final products
Satisfactory completion of practice
assessments (not evaluated except for
completion)
Assignments offered in each writing
domain which include:
Composition
4+ personal
2+ descriptive
1+ narrative
1+ persuasive
Advanced and Intermediate
Composition
2+ personal/ narrative/
description plus a number
of practice assignments
1+ informational
2+ persuasive
Research Paper assessments to include
(this list not exclusive)
Regular demonstration of skills during
research writing process
Completion of research assignment including
use of all research strategies, writing
strategies, mechanics and convention
strategies
Rubric evaluation of all steps in process
Rubric evaluation of completed project
Aligned Materials/
Resources/Technology
 Teacher provided
resources of articles and
informational texts
Other
RTM Usage Guide
(summer 2001)
MLA Guide (both text and
on-line)
Handouts and worksheets
(teacher made)
Previous student work (for
modeling and comparison)
Newspaper and magazine
articles
Op-ed essays
School library
Resource materials such as:
Writer’s Inc., dictionaries,
theasauri
new classroom text with
mechanics, grammar,
stylistic, and usage
guidelines
Technology
Electronic References:
World’s Best Poetry
American Decades
InfoTrac ( periodicals)
Online Sources:
World Book Encyclopedia,
Instructional Strategies





Whole class instruction which
includes: Modeling reading
techniques, differentiation
techniques among materials,
evaluating resources strategies,
strategies for differentiating
between traditional forms and
electronic forms of source
material
Modeling writing, assessing, and
scoring techniques
Small group practice in writing,
assessing, scoring (using teacher
developed and PSSA rubrics)
Individual practice in writing,
self-assessing, and self-scoring
(using teacher developed and
PSSA rubrics)
Student-teacher individual
conferences along each step of
the way, including seeking
sources, checking bibliography
cards, checking note cards,
reading and offering suggestions
for revision on intermediate
drafts, editing of bibliographic
information, and presentation
using teacher created rubric
Grade 11 Composition
Project requirements (minimum)
Intermediate Composition
6-8 page paper
8 sources --5 used in paper
7 citations included
Advanced Composition
8-10 page paper
10 sources --7 used in paper
10 citations included
In Advanced Composition and Intermediate
Composition, the research paper must be
completed and turned in on time or the
student will fail the course.
World Book
New Book of Knowledge,
Grolier
Grolier Multimedia
Encyclopedia, Grolier
Encyclopedia Americana,
Grolier
Newsbank
Contemporary Authors,
Gale
Student Resource Center
Silver, Gale. (Includes
multicultural, biography,
science, geography, and
humanities components-including literature
components plus
periodicals)
Access PA Power Library,
Includes Ebsco Host:
Primary Search or Middle
Search Plus (periodicals),
Associated Press Photo
Archive, SIRS Discoverer
Deluxe, Searchasaurus,
Access PA Database, AltHealth Watch, NoveList,
SIRS Researcher, Facts.com
RTM has capacity for
students to access a number
of resources from home.
Grade 11 Composition
Essential Question, Concept or Theme: D. Students will master the basic as well as the
sophisticated elements of the research process.
Approx. Time Allotment:
Standards: 1.8.11 all
Adaptations/Inclusion
Techniques
Research
 Reduce the length of writing
assignments
 Reduce number of sources required
 Extend time parameters
 Offer modified alternative assignments
 Give advance notice regarding future
assignments
 Note taking by classmates for
reproduction
 Use computer technology
 Peer tutoring and pairing
 Provide classroom aide
 As per student’s IEP
Enrichment
Strategies







Examining other art genres
using their themes for
writing stimulation and
prompts
Guest speakers (published
authors, journalists)
Independent study
Make given assignments
multi-layered and
multifaceted
Contests (teachergenerated and outside
agencies)
Contributions to school
newspaper and literary
magazine
Writing to out-of-school
sources
Remediation
Strategies




Theme Reader to help one-onone
Teacher student conferences
After school support as needed
Mini lessons on basic skill
Multicultural/
Interdisciplinary Connection
Expository and informational writing
skills are essential in all areas of
scholastic endeavor and the working
world as well as the world at large.
The content of student work, both
essays and research, encompasses all
areas of interest and learning such as:
Health and science (tobacco use, drug
use, abortion, “twin” research,
environmental concerns)
History and global information
(immigration policy, effects of
warfare, international internal
struggles)
Politics, economics, public policy
(highway funding for bike paths,
minority rights, censorship)
Teacher provided materials, resources,
and models will attempt to show
sensitivity to and to include examples
which highlight or emphasize areas
related to ethnicity or multicultural
interest
Descriptive and narrative writing
skills help students expand their
knowledge based on personal interest
in such areas as:
 Architecture
 Art
 Government concerns
 Health concerns
Grade 11 Composition








Hobbies
Literature
Mass media
Movies
Popular music
Social concerns
Sports
Urban and suburban community
design