Requested Resources

More than a few of you have asked for more resources regarding different aspects of the persuasive essay. Here are some things I found for you:

More examples of real concessions and refutations: Right here

Again, counterarguments, refutations, concessions... these are not required. But they can be a very effective persuasive technique in the right moment. Read through these at your leisure. 

More examples of conclusions: Right here

There are so many great ways to conclude a persuasive essay. Check these out - there are some really great ideas in here. You can use emotive language, answer the "So what?" question and appeal to a universal idea, do a call-to-action...

More examples of introductions: Right here

So many ways to make a great intro. We've gone over many of them in class. Notes for the Best Introduction Ideas Ever

Reflections After our Conferences

I've really enjoyed conferencing with all of you over the last few days; I look forward to continuing these conferences and reading the resulting and inevitable awesomeness.

Some general ideas that I want to make sure everyone knows:

• Testing Strategies: You're only going to write 1 persuasive essay on test day. YES, you do have time to brainstorm and plan. You can use a dictionary and thesaurus on the entire exam, and you can take the exam in any order you like. You can do the essay first, reading first, anything you like. We'll talk next Tuesday (March 31) about personalized pacing and order.
• Essay Priorities: Hooks, counterarguments, rebuttals, calls-to-action, all of these are not required. They are options. You, as the writer, have to look at the topic and decide which of these work best for the topic. Trust your gut. You must have a thesis, example/topic, and a persuasive tone.
• The Tricky Truth: Nowhere on the rubric does it say you have to tell the truth. This is a writing exam, not a truth test. You can embellish and make up details all you want, but please make sure you're keeping your details and creativity believable. To persuade, you (the writer) have to come across as knowledgeable, someone the audience can listen to - someone reliable. And they won't believe you or listen to you if you make up random details and impossible stories or scenarios. 

Four school days left, y'all. 

K/H: Theme Notes

If you don't already have it, please print and bring these theme notes for class: How to Write a Thematic Statement

K/H: Book of Choice Project

For the last book of the year, you get to choose the book.

- The book can be fiction your nonfiction, any genre.
- The book will be compared stylistically and thematically to the other books we've read. Therefore, short pieces and young adult fiction are not appropriate.
- Once you pick your book, please have your parents sign a permission form for you to read it. Here is a link to the permission slip. Please sign and return by April 15, 2015.