Engaging Students in Argumentative Writing

After observing this class period, you thank Ms. In-Need-of-Persuasion for the opportunity to visit her classroom. She asks you what you thought of the class period, and you tactfully share that you were really impressed with the fact that she challenged her students to engage in argumentative writing about a current topic, and that you have done some really cool things in the classroom with your mentor teacher as a teaching intern, activities which she might be interested in considering. Ms. In-Need-of-Persuasion is interested in your offer. She agrees to meet you for coffee and learn more about your ideas and how she might "spice up" her persuasive writing unit. In preparing for this meeting, think through and discuss the following prompts with your group. Untitled Document



1. Invent some alternative methods of teaching argumentative writing in Ms. In-Need-of-Persuasion's classroom. Based on your experiences as a student and/or teacher using these methods, why do you think these alternative methods worked? How are these methods different from Ms. In-Need-of-Persuasions methods and why may they serve to enhance students engagement in writing?

2. Listen to what experienced teacher, Sarah Hechlik, has to say about a successful argumentative writing unit she incorporates into her Advanced Composition Class for Seniors by clicking on the link above. Then, discuss these prompts:

a. How does this teacher frame her students' assignments in terms of topics/issues, purpose, and audience?

b. How may students writing about community causes enhance their engagement with argumentative writing?

3. Based on this teachers assignment, brainstorm with your peers an argumentative writing assignment that builds on this teachers assignment. What activities would you employ in using this assignment in the classroom? How might you assess students' writing?

The major task: Now, reflect on what you've done as a teacher, observed in other teachers' classrooms, the video you just watched, as well as the scholarship you've read on the teaching of writing. Brainstorm ideas for how you'll persuade Ms. In-Need-of-Persuasion to plan an argumentative writing unit that will engage her students in literacy practices.

Links:
Ms. In-Need-of-Persuasion's Classroom
Teaching to Exceed Virtual School