MONDAY,
NOVEMBER 12
Mon., Nov. 12, 2012
What’s in a Name?
“Why is a name so important?”
DO NOW: “My Acrostic Name Poem”
Knowledge-seeker
Inquisitive about new things
Shoe-lover (and collector…)
Creative in everything that I do
Humorous, but serious when it’s time to get down
to business
Mother of a beautiful, six-year old boy
Analytical about big and little things
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
DO NOW:
Create an Acrostic Poem using your name.
Knowledge-seeker
Inquisitive about new things
Shoe-lover (and collector…)
Creative in everything that I do
Humorous, but serious when it’s time to get down to business
Mother of a beautiful, six-year old boy
Analytical about big and little things
TODAY:
• Acrostic Poem Art
• “My Name” (excerpt from
Esperanza Rising) by
Sandra Cisneros
• Homework
What you need:
• Pen/pencil
• Scissors/glue
• Notebook
• YOUR BRAIN!
REMINDERS:
• Write the EQ in your
agenda!
• Panther Prep every
Wednesday
• Vocab Quiz #9 on
Thursday !
• Homework assignment
due on Tuesday
Mr. Wise-g(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
CREATING AN
“ARTISTIC
ACROSTIC NAME
POEM”
“Artistic Acrostic Name
Poem”:
nowledge-seeking
nquisitive about new things
hoe-lover (and collector…)
reative in everything that I do
umorous, but serious when it’s time to
get down to business
1. Use your acrostic poem
from the DO NOW to
create a creative visual of
it
2. Take the half-sheet and
use magazine text and
images to re-create your
poem.
Mr. Wise-g(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
READING AND
ANALYSIS OF
“MY NAME”
by SANDRA
CISNEROS
“My Name” by Sandra Cisneros from The House on Mango Street
“My Name” by Sandra
Cisneros Analysis:
1. Paste/anchor tab the
handout into your
notebook.
2. In your groups, discuss
responses to the
questions.
In English my name means hope. In Spanish it means too many letters. It means
sadness, it means waiting. It is like the number nine. A muddy color. It is the Mexican
records my father plays on Sunday mornings when he is shaving, songs like sobbing.
It was my great-grandmother's name and now it is mine. She was a horse woman too,
born like me in the Chinese year of the horse--which is supposed to be bad luck if
you're born female-but I think this is a Chinese lie because the Chinese, like the
Mexicans, don't like their women strong.
My great-grandmother. I would've liked to have known her, a wild, horse of a woman,
so wild she wouldn't marry. Until my great-grandfather threw a sack over her head
and carried her off. Just like that, as if she were a fancy chandelier. That's the way he
did it.
And the story goes she never forgave him. She looked out the window her whole life,
the way so many women sit their sadness on an elbow. I wonder if she made the best
with what she got or was she sorry because she couldn't be all the things she wanted
to be. Esperanza. I have inherited her name, but I don't want to inherit her place by
the window.
At school they say my name funny as if the syllables were made out of tin and hurt the
roof of your mouth. But in Spanish my name is made out of a softer something, like
silver, not quite as thick as sister's name Magdalena--which is uglier than mine.
Magdalena who at least- - can come home and become Nenny. But I am always
Esperanza.
I would like to baptize myself under a new name, a name more like the real me, the
one nobody sees. Esperanza as Lisandra or Maritza or Zeze the X. Yes. Something like
Zeze the X will do.
Who is the narrator/speaker? Describe what he/she is alike and use text evidence for
support. (think back to the character analysis that we’ve done before.)
In one sentence, state what is this piece about.
What is the tone of this piece? Explain your response.
Why do you think names are important?
What would be a thematic statement for this piece?
1. Who is the narrator/speaker? Describe using text evidence.
The name of the narrator is Esperanza. She seems to be a young girl who is
very self-conscious about her identity, and her name seems to be a large
part of that. Her name comes from her grandmother, who, when Esperanza
states, “I have inherited her name, but I don't want to inherit her place by
the window”, does not want her life to be like.
2. In one sentence, state what this piece is about.
This piece is about a young girl reflecting on the origin and meanings
associated with her name and how she does not seem to like or want to be
defined by her name.
3.
What is the tone of this piece?
The tone of this piece is critical. Esperanza seems to be breaking her
identity down into elements of what it looks and sounds like, the history of
her name, and what she would prefer her name to be.
4. Whey do you think that names are important?
Names are important because they can be a reflection of the who a person
is or who a person is destined to be.
.
5. Write a thematic for this piece.
A name can be more than just a title.
The history of a person’s name does not have to dictate that person’s
future.
“My Name” by Sandra
Cisneros Analysis:
1. Who is the
narrator/speaker?
Describe what he/she is
alike and use text
evidence for support.
(think back to the
character analysis that
we’ve done before.)
2. In one sentence, state
what is this piece about.
3. What is the tone of this
piece? Explain your
response.
4. Why do you think names
are important?
5. What could be a thematic
statement for this piece?
TUESDAY,
NOVEMBER 13
Tues., Nov. 13, 2012
Analyzing a Narrative
“How does a person’s name hold meaning ?”
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
TODAY:
• “The Name Game” by
Shirley Ellis
• Review DO NOW
• Video Clips
• Review Questions on “My
Name”
What you need:
• Pen/pencil
• Notebook
• YOUR BRAIN!
DO NOW:
1. Paste the cartoon into your notebook.
2. Answer the following question:
Why would these parents want to give their child one of
these names?
REMINDERS:
• Write the EQ in your
agenda!
• Write your review
questions in the margins!
• Panther Prep every
Wednesday
• Vocab Quiz #9 on
Thursday !
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
THE ORIGIN OF
THE PHRASE
“WHAT’S IN A
NAME?”
'Tis but thy name that is my enemy;
Thou art thyself, though not a Montague.
What's Montague? it is nor hand, nor foot,
Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part
Belonging to a man. O, be some other name!
What's in a name? that which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet;
So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call'd,
Retain that dear perfection which he owes
Without that title. Romeo, doff thy name,
And for that name which is no part of thee
Take all myself.
Translation (taken from http://www.nosweatshakespeare.com/quotes/whats-in-a-name/):
Juliet is not allowed to associate with Romeo because he is a Montague. If he had
any other name it would be fine. She’s complaining that his name is meaningless. If
the rose had any other name it would still be the same. So with Romeo; he would
still be the same beautiful young man even if he had a different name. “What’s in a
name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet” Juliet
knows that the blood feud prevents her from loving a Montague. She ponders it. It’s
only your name that’s the enemy. You are what you are, even though you may be a
Montague. What’s ‘Montague’? It isn’t hand or foot or arm or face or any other part
belonging to a man. Oh I wish you had a different name. What is so special about a
name? A rose, even if it were called something else, would smell just as sweet. So
Romeo would still have all the perfection that he has, even if he were not called
Romeo. Romeo, take off your name and in exchange for that whole name, which is
not really a part of what you are, you can have all of me.
“ROMEO AND JULIET”
Balcony Scene viewing:
The origin of this phrase is traced
back to the famous balcony scene
of Act II, Scene II of Shakespeare’s
play, “Romeo and Juliet”.
Juliet and Romeo cannot be
together because their families do
not like each other. In essence, it
is because of their family names
that prevents them from seeing
each other.
In her brief soliloquy (kind of like a
monologue) in this scene, Juliet
mentions that “What’s in a name,
that which we call a rose by any
other name would smell as
sweet?”
Let’s take a look at a modern theatrical presentation
of this scene…
“ROMEO AND JULIET”
Balcony Scene viewing:
As you watch the scene, listen out
for any references made to a
character’s name.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHoaPLO6Zd8
And here’s a modern translation of this scene…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6HpUndEtP8
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
THE INSPIRATION
FOR “THE HOUSE
ON MANGO
STREET”
“INTERVIEW WITH SANDRA
CISNEROS” viewing:
Watch the video clip of an
interview with Sandra Cisneros.
As you are watching, write down 3
facts about Sandra Cisneros and
how she was inspired to write this
novel. (View the setup in your
notebook on the next slide.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXO8a6
HYttw&feature=channel&list=UL
Tues., Nov. 13, 2012
Expository Writing on a Narrative
“How do I express my point-of-view about a piece
of writing?”
DO
NOW:
Observations about Sandra Cisneros:
1.
2.
3.
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
“INTERVIEW WITH SANDRA
CISNEROS” viewing:
Watch the video clip of an
interview with Sandra Cisneros.
As you are watching, write down 3
facts about Sandra Cisneros and
how she was inspired to write this
novel.
“THE HOUSE ON MANGO
STREET: MY NAME” viewing:
Watch the video clip of the scene
where Esperanza discusser her
name in a theater adaptation of
this novel. As you are watching,
write 1 QCR. (View the setup in
your notebook on the next slide.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZEuOM
0TRjY
Tues., Nov. 13, 2012
Expository Writing on a Narrative
“How do I express my point-of-view about a piece
of writing?”
DO
NOW:
Observations about Sandra Cisneros:
1.
2.
3.
QCR for “My Name” Theater Production:
Q:
C:
R:
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
“THE HOUSE ON MANGO
STREET: MY NAME” viewing:
Watch the video clip of the scene
where Esperanza discusser her
name in a theater adaptation of
this novel. As you are watching,
write 1 QCR.
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
REVIEWING YOUR
RESPONSES TO
“MY NAME”
(from Monday)
1. Who is the narrator/speaker? Describe using text evidence.
2. In one sentence, state what this piece is about.
3.
What is the tone of this piece?
4. Whey do you think that names are important?
.
5. Write a thematic for this piece.
“My Name” by Sandra
Cisneros Analysis:
1. In groups of 4, share your
responses to the
questions. Pay attention
to the use of complete
sentences. Make sure
that your peers’
responses answer the
question and express a
complete and clear
thought
2. Decide on the best
response for each
question to share out
with the rest of the class.
1. Who is the narrator/speaker? Describe using text evidence.
The name of the narrator is Esperanza. She seems to be a young girl who is
very self-conscious about her identity, and her name seems to be a large
part of that. Her name comes from her grandmother, who, when Esperanza
states, “I have inherited her name, but I don't want to inherit her place by
the window”, does not want her life to be like.
2. In one sentence, state what this piece is about.
This piece is about a young girl reflecting on the origin and meanings
associated with her name and how she does not seem to like or want to be
defined by her name.
3.
What is the tone of this piece?
The tone of this piece is critical. Esperanza seems to be breaking her
identity down into elements of what it looks and sounds like, the history of
her name, and what she would prefer her name to be.
4. Whey do you think that names are important?
Names are important because they can be a reflection of the who a person
is or who a person is destined to be.
.
5. Write a thematic for this piece.
A name can be more than just a title.
The history of a person’s name does not have to dictate that person’s
future.
“My Name” by Sandra
Cisneros Analysis:
1. Who is the
narrator/speaker?
Describe what he/she is
alike and use text
evidence for support.
(think back to the
character analysis that
we’ve done before.)
2. In one sentence, state
what is this piece about.
3. What is the tone of this
piece? Explain your
response.
4. Why do you think names
are important?
5. What could be a thematic
statement for this piece?
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
YOUR
HOMEWORK
RESEARCH/
QUESTIONAIRRE!
What’s In My Name?
1.
My name means-
2.
What is your name’s origin (country/language)?
3.
It sounds like-
4.
It looks like-
5.
It is like a- (simile)
6.
Why did your parents choose it?
7.
Was it someone else’s name before you? Explain who
they were and why they chose that person to name you
after. What were they like? Are you like them?
8.
What nicknames do you have from that name if any and
why? Explain?
9.
Do you like your name? Why or Why not? Explain?
10. If you could choose another name, would you, and
what would it be?
“WHAT’S IN MY NAME?”
HOMEWORK:
1. Anchor tab and glue this sheet
into your notebook on the
RIGHT-HAND SIDE.
2. Write the topic of “Research
on My Name” in the upper
right-hand corner of the page
3. Take this sheet home and do
some research on the
background behind your
name. Have your parents
and/or other family members
help you. Use the internet to
find the meaning(s) behind
your name. If your name is
unique, find any similar
connections that your name
may have to something else.
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
CELEBRITIES WHO
CHANGED THEIR
NAMES FOR
FAME!
Just for fun…
Videos
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4e1_aaCp1ek
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZY3lgJ8mlE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnwUfG-KHdY
#4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYM68hH-Ezs
#2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cHQhqsBjXU
#3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBSd9LGlXzM&fe
ature=relmfu
#1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b14pWvQ1mGs&f
eature=relmfu
Article
http://www.businessinsider.com/here-are-the-realnames-of-tk-actors--celebrities-2012-7?op=1
WEDNESDAY,
NOVEMBER 14
Wed., Nov. 14, 2012
Expository Draft
“How do I begin drafting an expository writing?”
5 Ways to Organize an Expository Piece
(organizational patterns):
Problem- Solution?
Sequential/Chronological Order?
Main Idea-Supporting Detail?
Cause-Effect?
Compare/Contrast?
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
DO NOW:
1. Copy the title for the first set of notes. (You do not have to write
the rest of on your notebook page.) Paste the notes about
Organizational Patterns into your notebook.
2.
Decide which description matches the patterns above. Now,
write the above information into the appropriate spaces on your
handout.
3. Look back at the 3 articles from the dates of 10/29, 10/30, and
10/31.
•
Which question for each article relates to its organization?
•
Decide on which organizational pattern was used for each piece
and write that down under the respective question on the
handout were used for those pieces.
TODAY:
• Expository Organizational
Patterns
• 5 Pre-Writing Questions
• Expository Writing
Prompt
• Expository Intro
Paragraph Drafting
What you need:
• Pen/pencil
• Notebook
• Scissors/Glue
• YOUR BRAIN!
REMINDERS:
• Write the EQ in your
agenda!
• Write your review
questions in the margins!
• Panther Prep every
Wednesday
• Vocab Quiz #9 on
Thursday !
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
RESPONSES TO
THE DO NOW
The organizational pattern is the specific way that an essay is set up in order
to help with the readability of the piece, as well as to support what the author is
attempting to show or share. The type of organizational pattern used may
determine what transitions are used in the piece as well.
The following chart shows the types of organizational patterns and the
purpose(s) that they are used for:
Organizational Pattern
Sequential –
Chronological Order
Purpose
to explain something in sequential order, or step-by-step
Cause - Effect
to explain what resulted from an action or a condition
Compare - Contrast
to examine the similarities and differences between two or
more subjects
to explain the main topics and give details of them
Main IdeaSupporting Detail
Problem- Solution
to state a problem or issue, analyze it, and then propose a
solution
1.
2.
3.
What is this piece about?
This piece is about…
•
The dangers of overfeeding pets
•
Why people shouldn’t overfeed their pets
•
What could happen if you overfeed your pet
What is the author’s position on the topic? Find the
sentence toward the beginning of the piece that states
what the author is talking about and that the rest of the
piece connects back to. (We will do this together as a class.)
•
The author thinks that people should not overfeed their
pets. He says, “Doing so (letting your pet eat as it wants)
can be very hazardous to the health of your pet.”
List 3 points, or reasons, that the article contains that
relates back to the sentence that you wrote down for #2.
• One reason is because pets can develop heart problems.
• A second reason is because your pet may develop
arthritis.
• A third reason is overfeeding can result in liver disease.
4. Explain how this piece is organized.
This piece is organized where the author introduces the
cause of animal owners not paying attention to how
they feed their pets, and then he uses the rest of the
piece to explain the effects of this cause.
5. What is the point of this piece…what should the take-away
be for the reader?
To avoid harmful affects to a loved animal, pet owners
should take precautions when feeding their pets.
LOOK BACK AT THE
ARTICLE FROM
OCTOBER 29,
“THE DANGERS OF
OVERFEEDING YOUR
PET”
“Analyzing Expository
Writing”
• Which question for each
article relates to its
organization?
• Decide on which
organizational pattern was
used for each piece and write
that down under the
respective question on the
handout were used for those
pieces.
(CAUSE AND EFFECT)
1. What is this piece about?
This piece is about…
a young boy having the opportunity to live a normal life at school. She
states that, “Devon’s parents knew that there was no way the young
boy would be able to survive in a normal classroom…until they heard
about this incredible avatar.”
2. What is the author’s position on the topic? Find a sentence or two that
shows what the author’s position is and shows what the rest of the article
will relate back to.
The author’s position is….
…that thanks to a robotic device, a young boy has the
opportunity to enjoy the near- normal school life that he thought
he would never have.
3. How does the author support his/her position.
The author supports her opinion by…
…showing how the robotic device’s two-way audio/visual
capabilities allows for the boy to be a part of the school setting
4. Complete the chart below. (on a later slide)
5. How is this piece organized?
This piece is organized….
…by connecting the reader to a common sentiment about school,
then presenting the problem that … has, and finally showing how
the problem was overcome. The author also shows the downside
to the situation, but the positives are presented to outweigh the
negatives.
6. What is the point of this piece…what should the take-away be for the
reader?
The point of this piece is…
…every child should have the opportunity to engage in a normal
childhood while at school.
LOOK BACK AT THE
ARTICLE FROM
OCTOBER 30,
“2ND GRADER GOES TO
SCHOOL VIA AN
AVATAR”
“Analyzing Expository
Writing”
• Which question for each
article relates to its
organization?
• Decide on which
organizational pattern was
used for each piece and write
that down under the
respective question on the
handout were used for those
pieces.
(PROBLEM SOLUTION)
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
5 PRE-WRITING
QUESTIONS FOR
EXPOSITORY
WRITING
Wed., Nov. 14, 2012
Analyzing a Narrative
“How does a person’s name hold meaning ?”
Notes on Pre-writing
Questions:
Paste the handout into your notebook.
5 Ways to Organize an Expository Piece:
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
As we discuss each item, fill in the
blank with the missing word and write
down the additional notes.
Topic: What you are writing about
Purpose: The reason that you are
writing the piece.
5 Pre-writing Questions for an Expository Piece:
topic
1. What is the __________
of the piece?
purpose
2. What is your _________ in writing the piece?
thesis statement?
3. What is your _________
4. How are you explaining
_________ your thesis?
supporting
5. How are you _________ your thesis?
Thesis: A sentence (usually the
last one) in your introductory
paragraph that generally, but
clearly states what the piece is
about.
Explanation: Insight and details
telling more about the thesis in
your own words.
Support: Facts, stats, graphs, text
evidence, etc. that you use to
support your explanation.
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
YOUR
EXPOSITORY
WRITING PROMPT
Expository Writing Prompt
Read and consider the following statement:
Names area funny thing. There is actually research that shows
some success can be attributed to the name you were give or even
the reverse, that your name can cause you challenges.
Think carefully about the following:
A person’s name can have an impact on his or her life.
STAAR Formatted Scaffolding
Write an essay explaining your response to the prompt.
Be sure to--•Clearly state your controlling idea (a.k.a. thesis)
•Organize and develop your explanation effectively
•Choose your words carefully
•Use correct spelling, capitalization, punctuation, grammar, and
sentences
•Think about the Cisneros piece and use it for textual support.
EXPOSITORY WRITING
PROMPT:
1. Anchor tab and paste the
Expository Writing Prompt into
your notebook.
2. Read through the handout and
write down any questions that you
may have on it.
Pre-Writing
Topic:
Purpose:
Thesis statement:
Explanation: (leave enough room so
3. Share your questions during
the whole class review of the
prompt.
4. On the outside flap, begin
brainstorming how you are going
to draft your expository writing by
answering the 5 pre-writing
questions from the previous slide.
that you can jot down your thoughts)
Support:
(write down the text evidence
you will use based on your explanation)
EXPOSITORY WRITING
PROMPT:
Together, let’s identify:
The topic
The purpose
Pre-Writing
Topic:
a person’s name
Purpose: Explain how it can impact
a person’s life
Thesis statement:
Explanation: (leave enough room so
that you can jot down your thoughts)
Support:
(write down the text evidence
you will use based on your explanation)
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
THESIS
STATEMENTS
1.
2.
3.
What is this piece about?
This piece is about…
•
The dangers of overfeeding pets
•
Why people shouldn’t overfeed their pets
•
What could happen if you overfeed your pet
What is the author’s position on the topic? Find the
sentence toward the beginning of the piece that states
what the author is talking about and that the rest of the
piece connects back to. (We will do this together as a class.)
•
The author thinks that people should not overfeed their
pets. He says, “Doing so (letting your pet eat as it wants)
can be very hazardous to the health of your pet.”
List 3 points, or reasons, that the article contains that
relates back to the sentence that you wrote down for #2.
• One reason is because pets can develop heart problems.
• A second reason is because your pet may develop
arthritis.
• A third reason is overfeeding can result in liver disease.
4. Explain how this piece is organized.
This piece is organized where the author introduces the
cause of animal owners not paying attention to how
they feed their pets, and then he uses the rest of the
piece to explain the effects of this cause.
5. What is the point of this piece…what should the take-away
be for the reader?
To avoid harmful affects to a loved animal, pet owners
should take precautions when feeding their pets.
LOOK BACK AT THE
ARTICLE FROM
OCTOBER 29,
“THE DANGERS OF
OVERFEEDING YOUR
PET”
“Analyzing Expository
Writing”
• Which question for this
article relates to its thesis?
• Decide on which sentence
would best serve as the
thesis statement for this
piece.
“Doing so (letting your pet eat as
it wants) can be very hazardous
to the health of your pet.”
• Based on this sentence, what
is the rest of the piece going
to be about?
How letting your pet eat what it
wants can be harmful to its
health.
1. What is this piece about?
This piece is about…
a young boy having the opportunity to live a normal life at school. She
states that, “Devon’s parents knew that there was no way the young
boy would be able to survive in a normal classroom…until they heard
about this incredible avatar.”
2. What is the author’s position on the topic? Find a sentence or two that
shows what the author’s position is and shows what the rest of the article
will relate back to.
The author’s position is….
…that thanks to a robotic device, a young boy has the
opportunity to enjoy the near- normal school life that he thought
he would never have.
3. How does the author support his/her position.
The author supports her opinion by…
…showing how the robotic device’s two-way audio/visual
capabilities allows for the boy to be a part of the school setting
4. Complete the chart below. (on a later slide)
5. How is this piece organized?
This piece is organized….
…by connecting the reader to a common sentiment about school,
then presenting the problem that … has, and finally showing how
the problem was overcome. The author also shows the downside
to the situation, but the positives are presented to outweigh the
negatives.
6. What is the point of this piece…what should the take-away be for the
reader?
The point of this piece is…
…every child should have the opportunity to engage in a normal
childhood while at school.
LOOK BACK AT THE
ARTICLE FROM OCTOBER
30,
“2ND GRADER GOES TO
SCHOOL VIA AN AVATAR”
“Analyzing Expository
Writing”
• Which question for this
article relates to its thesis?
• Decide on which sentence
would best serve as the
thesis statement for this
piece.
“Thanks to a robotic device, a
young boy has the opportunity
to enjoy the near-normal school
life that he thought he would
never have.”
• Based on this sentence, what
is the rest of the piece going
to be about?
The rest of the piece is going to
be about how a robot was the
solution for a kid to have the
opportunity at a normal life.
Expository Draft
PRACTICE WRITING A THESIS
STATEMENT FOR YOUR ESSAY:
1. Think about your topic and purpose
for this essay.
Practice Thesis Statements:
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
What is your response?
2. Begin your response by stating:
“I think that…”
After you have completed that
statement, remove the “I think that…”
and edit the sentence as needed so
that it still makes sense.
Example using The Giving Tree:
Step 1, Write your response: I think
that the tree in this story gave
unconditional love to the boy.
Step 2, Cross out words: I think that
the tree in this story gave
unconditional love to the boy.
Step 3, Revise for clarity: The tree in
this story gave unconditional love to
the boy.
3. Share your final sentence with your
partner for feedback.
Mr. Wise G(eye) says…Let’s take a look at:
INTRO
PARAGRAPHS
TIC TOC Tip FOR WRITING AN
INTRO PARAGRAPH**:
Anchor tab and paste the top portion
of the handout into your notebook.
As we review it, highlight/underline
important details that you find
important.
After reviewing this, and once you
have completed your pre-writing
questions, begin a rough draft of your
intro paragraph.
Expository Draft
TIC TOC Tip FOR WRITING AN
INTRO PARAGRAPH**:
A TIC TOC Tip to Writing an Intro Paragraph:
“TIC TOC Introduction” A Formula for Writing a Basic Intro Paragraph
Use this formula to help you begin writing an
introductory paragraph. This is not a dedicated formula
that you have to follow, but rather a tool to help you get
started.
Turn and paste the top of the page
along the left margin.
Theme – write a lead statement/hook that addresses a
theme
ex.: Chewing gum is essential for survival.
Insight – write at least one sentence that gives your
opinion or more information about the theme (without
using personal pronouns)
ex.: It is hard to imagine how people survived before
the invention of chewing gum.
Connection – now connect your theme to your essay
topic with at least one sentence
ex.: It is even harder to imagine that chewing gum is
not allowed at Timberwood Middle School.
Thesis/Opinion/Claim – your final statement telling your
topic/opinion of the topic of your essay
ex.: If students at Timberwood were allowed to chew
gum, they would be more successful in school.
Don’t
forget to
section
this
space
off!
Theme statement
Insight
Connection to topic
Thesis (or Opinion or Claim or Controlling
Idea!)
Points to remember:
• This is not an established formula
that you are required to use.
• Once you get comfortable in how
to organize your thoughts for an
intro paragraph, be creative and
put your own spin on it. Add more
details and sentences.
• You can almost use this same
approach when writing your
conclusion…just revisit what you
addressed in the intro.
• The most important element is
your thesis/opinion/claim. That
indicates what your piece will be
about. Make sure that you stick to
that topic!
**PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS SOMETHING THAT I
DEVELOPED TO SERVE ONLY AS A BEGINNING
POINT UNTIL YOU CAN IMPROVE ON
WRITING AN INTRO ON YOUR OWN. THIS IS
NOT A PROVEN AND FOOLPROOF METHOD.
A Sample Intro Paragraph for a Persuasive Essay/Argument on
the Importance of Money in Today’s Society
(T) Greed, lying, cheating, and stealing are all horrible. (I) But are
these sins that can be justified? (C) Nowadays, it is hard to have a
good life if you don’t have money. For some people, the only way
to get money is to lie, cheat, or steal. (TOC) Maybe it is time that
we reconsider the importance of money in our society.
A Sample Intro Paragraph for Expository Essay Informing the
Audience on the effects of Watching Too Much TV
(T) What is your favorite reality television show? (I) This is a
question that many people would easily give a list of answers to.
(C) Television has always been a popular form of entertainment
and has evolved in the types of shows being broadcast over the
decades. (TOC) However, it is important to realize that although it
is entertaining, television could be harmful to your health.
A Sample Intro Paragraph for a Personal Narrative
(T/I) If you have ever had your face devoured by a sidewalk, then
you can understand the sheer embarrassment of having to go to
school the very next day after that happens. (C) Walking into your
third grade class with a “concrete-eaten” face is beyond mortifying.
What’s worse is having to admit that you should have listened to
your mom. (That’s almost harder to swallow than concrete!) (TOC)
But it’s true. When you don’t listen to your parents, bad things can
happen. Trust me, I learned that the hard way. Literally. Concrete is
very hard.
TIC TOC Tips FOR WRITING
AN INTRO PARAGRAPH**:
Use these examples as inspiration.
Begin drafting your introductory
paragraph.
Don’t forget to incorporate your thesis.
Let’s take a look at:
REVISITING
WRITING A
(SHORT)
RESPONSE TO A
POEM
1.
What do you think and/or feel about this poem? Write one sentence to
express this.
The Giving Tree is a sad story that leaves the reader feeling
empathy for the tree.
2. Why do you think and/or feel this way about the poem? Write down 1
reason.
One cannot help but to feel sorry for the tree because it
constantly yearns for the love and attention of the little boy, but doesn’t always
receive them.
3.
Explain your reason in at least two sentences.
Since the boy was a youth, the tree would give all that she had to
it. However, as much as she would give, was as much as the boy would take.
The unfortunate part was that, throughout the story, the boy would always ask
of the tree things that he should have been able to obtain on his own.
4. Find text evidence from the piece to show or support your reason from
#2.
He would ask such things as, “Can you give me some money?
Can you give me a house? Can you give me a boat?” (paragraphs 5, 10, and
15)
.
5. Explain how your text evidence supports your reason.
These requests from the boy show how he values the tree in that
all he wants is for the tree to “give” him things.
6. Write a thematic statement that could relate to your response to #1. Try
to restate what you said in #1 into this statement.
The sadness of this story shows that it must be difficult to love
something that does not love you in return.
“Execution” by Edward
Hirsch Reflection
Summary:
1. Share your responses with
your neighbor.
2. Provide feedback on how
well your partner answered
the questions.
The Giving Tree is a sad story that leaves the reader feeling
empathy for the tree. One cannot help but to feel sorry for the tree because it
constantly gives unconditional love to the boy, but that love is not always
reciprocated.
“Execution” by Edward
Hirsch Reflection
Summary:
Since the boy was a youth, the tree would give all that she had to
it. However, as much as she would give was as much as the boy would take.
The unfortunate part was that, throughout the story, the boy would always ask
of the tree things that he should have been able to obtain on his own. He
would ask such things as, “Can you give me some money? Can you give me a
house? Can you give me a boat?” (paragraphs 5, 10, and 15) These requests
from the boy show how he values the tree in that all he wants is for the tree to
“give” him things.
Although this story is fictional in that there is no such thing as a
talking tree, the characters in this book could actually represent real people.
There are many relationships that exist like the one that the tree and the boy
have. Whether the relationship is between a parent and child, two friends, or
a couple dating, the sadness of this story shows that it must be difficult to love
something that does not love you in return.
1. Share your paragraph with
your neighbor.
2. Provide feedback on how
fluid and connected your
partner’s paragraph sounds.
THURSDAY,
NOVEMBER 15
TODAY:
• Vocab Quiz #9
• Student Writing Samples
• Expository Organizational
Patterns Review
• 5 Pre-Writing Questions
Review
• Expository Writing
Prompt Review
• Continue Expository Intro
Paragraph Drafting
What you need:
• Pen/pencil
• Notebook
• YOUR BRAIN!
DO NOW:
Review for your vocab quiz.
REMINDERS:
• Write the EQ in your
agenda!
• Write your review
questions in the margins!
• Panther Prep every
Wednesday
Sample Student Introduction
What would happen if no
one had a name? Would we be
numbered? Would we have to
wear tags? How would it be? A
name is to a person what a label is
to a product. But some people
don’t like their name. A name can
have a big impact on your like,
especially if you’re sentimental.
Student Sample
Introduction:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is this author’s
thesis statement?
3. What do you expect to
read about in the rest of
the essay?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student
Explanation/Body of the Essay
Some people are very
sentimental and they don’t like
their name, sometimes to the
extent of it affecting their self
esteem. When someone is named
after someone famous, they likely
have more self-esteem. They like
their name and want to “live up” to
their name. They feel like they will
be successful later in life.
However, this also depends on the
type of person that you’re dealing
with….
Student Sample Essay
Body:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is an explanation
that relates to the thesis?
3. What is the support given
for the explanation?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student Introduction
A name can tell much about a person.
It’s good to have a name, but without one,
everybody would be called the same. It would
be very hard to imagine if everyone had the
same name. A person’s name is important to
someone’s life.
Student Sample
Introduction:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is this author’s
thesis statement?
3. What do you expect to
read about in the rest of
the essay?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student
Explanation/Body of the Essay
A person needs a name so other
people can meet new people. People need
names because without them, others could be
chosen for something they didn’t do. Also,
people could act or pretend to be another
person.
Student Sample Essay
Body:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is an explanation
that relates to the thesis?
3. What is the support given
for the explanation?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student Introduction
Some people may like their
name because it is a family name
rich with heritage, and it makes
a good impact on their life.
other people do not like their
name because it is not a
traditional name, and it can
cause a negative impact on their
life.
Good or bad, names can
impact the way people are looked
at . A person’s name can impact
his/her life in a good or bad
way.
Student Sample
Introduction:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is this author’s
thesis statement?
3. What do you expect to
read about in the rest of
the essay?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student
Explanation/Body of the Essay
Names can affect the person’s life in
many ways. One way is that others might
label you by the way they think your name
means. A second way is if your named after
someone, they/your parents might expect you
to be like them.
Student Sample Essay
Body:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is an explanation
that relates to the thesis?
3. What is the support given
for the explanation?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
FRIDAY,
NOVEMBER 9
Sample Student Introduction
What would happen if no
one had a name? Would we be
numbered? Would we have to
wear tags? How would it be? A
name is to a person what a label is
to a product. But some people
don’t like their name. A name can
have a big impact on your like,
especially if you’re sentimental.
Student Sample
Introduction:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is this author’s
thesis statement?
3. What do you expect to
read about in the rest of
the essay?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student
Explanation/Body of the Essay
Some people are very
sentimental and they don’t like
their name, sometimes to the
extent of it affecting their self
esteem. When someone is named
after someone famous, they likely
have more self-esteem. They like
their name and want to “live up” to
their name. They feel like they will
be successful later in life.
However, this also depends on the
type of person that you’re dealing
with….
Student Sample Essay
Body:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is an explanation
that relates to the thesis?
3. What is the support given
for the explanation?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student Introduction
A name can tell much about a person.
It’s good to have a name, but without one,
everybody would be called the same. It would
be very hard to imagine if everyone had the
same name. A person’s name is important to
someone’s life.
Student Sample
Introduction:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is this author’s
thesis statement?
3. What do you expect to
read about in the rest of
the essay?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student
Explanation/Body of the Essay
A person needs a name so other
people can meet new people. People need
names because without them, others could be
chosen for something they didn’t do. Also,
people could act or pretend to be another
person.
Student Sample Essay
Body:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is an explanation
that relates to the thesis?
3. What is the support given
for the explanation?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student Introduction
Some people may like their
name because it is a family name
rich with heritage, and it makes
a good impact on their life.
other people do not like their
name because it is not a
traditional name, and it can
cause a negative impact on their
life.
Good or bad, names can
impact the way people are looked
at . A person’s name can impact
his/her life in a good or bad
way.
Student Sample
Introduction:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is this author’s
thesis statement?
3. What do you expect to
read about in the rest of
the essay?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?
Sample Student
Explanation/Body of the Essay
Names can affect the person’s life in
many ways. One way is that others might
label you by the way they think your name
means. A second way is if your named after
someone, they/your parents might expect you
to be like them.
Student Sample Essay
Body:
1. What do you like about
this paragraph?
2. What is an explanation
that relates to the thesis?
3. What is the support given
for the explanation?
4. What offer of
improvement would you
give to this author?