WritingA large part of the focus in grade 8 English is to develop a writer's "tool box" and become proficient at using those tools. Each tool given to the students is recorded in their handbooks and gives them strategies on writing in different genres, writing descriptively, editing and revising, collaboration, and more. We also focus on developing a process that will produce a high quality of written work.
Throughout the year, students work towards developing a portfolio of writing. Students are expected to have a minimum of one piece of writing in each of the following genres, with the exception of poetry in their portfolio by the end of the year: - Autobiography or Biography - Book Review - Essay - Memoir - Poetry (a minimum of 3 poems) - Short Story While students are expected to write in the genres listed above, assignments are not marked individually but according to the outcomes the student has chosen to demonstrate using that piece. The writing outcomes the students work towards fall under 3 different categories: Writing with Artistry, Writing with Clarity, and Writing with Intension. Becuase the focus throughout the year is on growth, students learn to use language such "not yet," "developing," and "meeting" in reference to the skills they are employing as an author. This language places the focus on learning and is used throughout the year.
Writing with IntensionBeing a good author is more than being able to use words in creative ways, and communicating clearly. It is about having an impact on the people who will read what has been written. Good authors write with the intension of communicating important ideas and truths to their audience.
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Coming Soon: Class Anthologies
2016
8.1 Class Anthology
8.2 Class Anthology
8.2 Class Anthology