ALEX Resources

Narrow Results:
Lesson Plans (1) A detailed description of the instruction for teaching one or more concepts or skills. Learning Activities (4) Building blocks of a lesson plan that include before, during, and after strategies to actively engage students in learning a concept or skill. Classroom Resources (14)

ALEX Lesson Plans  
   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) 24 :
24. Write about research findings independently over short and/or extended periods of time.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[SC2015] ES6 (6) 12 :
12 ) Integrate qualitative scientific and technical information (e.g., weather maps; diagrams; other visualizations, including radar and computer simulations) to support the claim that motions and complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather conditions.

a. Use various instruments (e.g., thermometers, barometers, anemometers, wet bulbs) to monitor local weather and examine weather patterns to predict various weather events, especially the impact of severe weather (e.g., fronts, hurricanes, tornados, blizzards, ice storms, droughts).

[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
Subject: English Language Arts (6), or Science (6)
Title: Tornadoes: Cause and Effect
Description:

The lesson will begin with a brief review of the previous lesson on how climates and geographic locations can affect weather patterns and produce natural disasters. Students will watch a short video during the before strategy to engage learners in the lesson on a particular natural disaster--tornadoes. Students will read various texts and charts in order to understand the causes and effects of tornadoes, putting the information in a T-chart to help organize their thoughts. Students will then discuss their findings with an elbow partner and then write a two-paragraph cause-and-effect essay which will serve as the summative assessment.

This unit was created as part of the ALEX Interdisciplinary Resource Development Summit.



ALEX Learning Activities  
   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
Subject: English Language Arts (6)
Title: Seven Steps to Successful Writing
Description:

This activity serves to introduce or refresh students about the steps in the writing process before writing an essay. This is a pre-test to see what the students know before writing an essay. It gives the definitions of the seven steps and can be used to study throughout the course of the year.

This resource was created in partnership with Dothan City Schools.



   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
Subject: English Language Arts (6)
Title: Write On!
Description:

In this activity, students will follow a Google Slide Presentation while writing notes or by taking digital notes about The Writing Process and the stages within the process. The students will also learn what each stage is designed to accomplish, what questions to ask to determine if they have met the goals of each stage and the focus of each stage.

This resource was created in partnership with Dothan City Schools.



   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
Subject: English Language Arts (6)
Title: Seven Steps to Successful Writing: The Post Test
Description:

This activity is the follow-up to the Pre-Test. It serves to introduce or refresh students about the steps in the writing process before writing an essay. This is a post-test to see what the students know before writing an essay. It gives the definitions of the seven steps and can be used to study throughout the course of the year.

This resource was created in partnership with Dothan City Schools.



   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[SS2010] USS6 (6) 10 :
10 ) Analyze changing economic priorities and cycles of economic expansion and contraction for their impact on society since World War II.

Examples: shift from manufacturing to service economy, higher standard of living, globalization, outsourcing, insourcing, "boom and bust," economic bubbles

•  Identifying policies and programs that had an economic impact on society since World War II
Examples: Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944 (G. I. Bill of Rights), Medicare and Medicaid, Head Start programs, space exploration, Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), environmental protection issues (Alabama)

•  Analyzing consequences of immigration for their impact on national and Alabama economies since World War II (Alabama)
Subject: English Language Arts (6), Social Studies (6)
Title: Two Minds Think Alike: Kennedy and Von Braun
Description:

This activity may serve as a final activity after a study of the 1960's Space Race. Students will utilize their prior knowledge of President Kennedy's entry into the Space Race, the role of Wernher Von Braun, and Huntsville's Marshall Space Flight Center. Students will write newspaper articles describing the policies and programs that Kennedy expanded in order to be the first to the moon. 

This activity results from the ALEX Resource Gap Project. 



ALEX Learning Activities: 4

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ALEX Classroom Resources  
   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (5) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (5) 34 :
34. Write personal or fictional narratives incorporating literary elements (characters, plot, setting, conflict), dialogue, strong voice, and clear event sequences.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives to convey a series of events incorporating key literary elements, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques (dialogue, pacing, description, and reflection), and sequencing events coherently (chronological and/or flashback).

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style to examine ideas or processes effectively while developing the topic and utilizing appropriate transitions, precise vocabulary, and credible information or data when relevant.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting claim(s), acknowledging alternate or opposing claims, and presenting reasons and relevant text evidence from accurate and credible sources.
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) 8 :
8. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives that establish a clear purpose, use narrative techniques, and sequence events coherently.

Examples: narratives - memoir, short story, personal narrative; techniques - dialogue, pacing, description, reflection;
sequencing - chronological, reverse chronological, flashback

b. Write informative or explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, by developing the topic with relevant information or data from credible sources and using appropriate transitions and precise vocabulary.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting a claim, distinguishing the claim from opposing claims, presenting counterclaims and reasons, and citing accurate, relevant textual evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (9) -3 :
R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.
[ELA2021] (9) 9 :
9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.
Subject: English Language Arts (5 - 9)
Title: The Mysteries of Harris Burdick: Using Illustrations to Guide Writing
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/mysteries-harris-burdick-using-30606.html
Description:

Mysteries are a great way to hook students into writing about fictional happenings. In this lesson, students engage themselves in The Mysteries of Harris Burdick by examining the illustrations in the book and choosing one for which to create a Mystery Cube and then a creative writing piece. Finally, students present their mysteries to the class and allow students to guess to which illustration their mystery corresponds.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (3) -1 :
R5. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (3) 33 :
33. Write personal or fictional narratives with a logical plot (sequence of events), characters, transitions, and a sense of closure.
[ELA2021] (4) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (4) 35 :
35. Write personal or fictional narratives using a logical plot, transitional words and phrases, sensory details, and dialogue, and providing a sense of closure.
[ELA2021] (5) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (5) 34 :
34. Write personal or fictional narratives incorporating literary elements (characters, plot, setting, conflict), dialogue, strong voice, and clear event sequences.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
Subject: English Language Arts (3 - 6)
Title: The Houdini Box: What Did Houdini Hide? Writing Creative Endings
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/houdini-what-houdini-hide-30878.html?tab=1#tabs
Description:

This lesson comprises five lessons that students love. During the first session, read aloud The Houdini Box by Brian Selznick to the class. Students then follow the steps of the writing process to create a new ending for this book. Students gain experience brainstorming, drafting, editing, and polishing their writing. Because their story endings must flow well with the rest of the book, students must understand what the book is about. The goal is for them to understand what they're reading and to demonstrate their knowledge of the book's content and their own creativity through a writing piece.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 3 :
3. Explain how authors use setting, plot, characters, theme, conflict, dialogue, and point of view to contribute to the meaning and purpose of prose and poetry, using textual evidence from the writing.
[ELA2021] (6) 9 :
9. Participate in collaborative discussions about literary devices and elements found in prose and poetry.
[ELA2021] (7) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 3 :
3. Explain how the author's choice of setting, plot, characters, theme, conflict, dialogue, and point of view contribute to and/or enhance the meaning and purpose of prose and poetry, using textual evidence from the writing.
[ELA2021] (7) 9 :
9. Participate in collaborative discussions about prose and poetry by evaluating the use of literary devices and elements.
[ELA2021] (7) 22 :
22. Choose language that expresses ideas precisely and concisely.
[ELA2021] (8) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) 3 :
3. Analyze how authors use key literary elements, including setting, plot, theme, characters, internal and external conflict, dialogue, and point of view, to contribute to the meaning and purpose of a text, using text evidence as support.
[ELA2021] (8) 10 :
10. Engage in coherent and collaborative discussions about prose and poetry by evaluating the use of literary devices and elements.
[ELA2021] (8) 32 :
32. Utilize appropriate vocabulary in various classroom, digital, and real-world situations to facilitate effective communication.
Subject: English Language Arts (6 - 8)
Title: Doodle Splash: Using Graphics to Discuss Literature
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/doodle-splash-using-graphics-190.html
Description:

As students read a short story, they “doodle,” either in a journal or using an online tool, responding to the text through images, symbols, shapes, and colors. They must be sure to represent all of the elements of the short story (setting, plot, character, point of view, theme) in their doodles. Students then work in small groups, to construct a graphic of their story on a sheet of newsprint with crayons or markers. When all groups have completed their graphics, they will present them to the class, explaining why they chose the elements they used. Finished graphics can be displayed on a class bulletin board, on walls, or scanned into a Web page.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
Subject: English Language Arts (6)
Title: Developing Story Structure With Paper-Bag Skits
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/developing-story-structure-with-1024.html
Description:

In this lesson, students will engage in an interactive activity that will enhance their understanding of story structure and story elements. After the teacher models the process of developing a plot, students work in cooperative groups to create semi-impromptu skits. Paper bags containing five unique props are distributed to each group; these props provide the impetus for the development of creative skits. Students then use online tools to outline the story elements in their skits. The lesson also promotes listening skills and critical thinking as students view other groups' performances and determine the conflict and resolution of each.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (6) 24 :
24. Write about research findings independently over short and/or extended periods of time.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 17 :
17. Identify the conventions of standard English grammar and usage in writing.

a. Identify subject-verb agreement with compound subjects joined by correlative and coordinating conjunctions and with collective nouns when verb form depends on the rest of the sentence.

b. Identify the usage of simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex statements and questions to signal differing relationships among ideas in a text.

c. Evaluate the functions of phrases and clauses in general and their function in specific sentences.
[ELA2021] (7) 26 :
26. Produce research writings over extended periods with time for research, reflection, and revision and within shorter time frames, with minimal guidance.

Examples: a day or two, a single sitting
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) -1 :
R6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
[ELA2021] (8) 25 :
25. Produce research writings independently over extended periods of time which encompass research, reflection, and revision and over shorter time frames.

Examples: a day or two, a single sitting
Subject: English Language Arts (6 - 8)
Title: More than One Way to Create Vivid Verbs
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/more-than-create-vivid-1008.html
Description:

After reviewing specific nouns, students create a two-column list of nouns and ordinary verbs specific to a particular occupation. They then pair a specific noun from the first column with an occupation-related verb from the second column to create descriptive lines with vivid verbs being used in a different context. The trick lies in the fact that the verbs must be used in a new way, having nothing to do with the occupation. Often this approach to writing leads to a natural metaphorical passage as a result. Students refine this writing strategy by rotating through computer stations, each housing a descriptive passage begun by other students, revising and suggesting improvements or just adding lines to the descriptive passages.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (5) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (5) 34 :
34. Write personal or fictional narratives incorporating literary elements (characters, plot, setting, conflict), dialogue, strong voice, and clear event sequences.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives to convey a series of events incorporating key literary elements, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques (dialogue, pacing, description, and reflection), and sequencing events coherently (chronological and/or flashback).

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style to examine ideas or processes effectively while developing the topic and utilizing appropriate transitions, precise vocabulary, and credible information or data when relevant.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting claim(s), acknowledging alternate or opposing claims, and presenting reasons and relevant text evidence from accurate and credible sources.
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) 8 :
8. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives that establish a clear purpose, use narrative techniques, and sequence events coherently.

Examples: narratives - memoir, short story, personal narrative; techniques - dialogue, pacing, description, reflection;
sequencing - chronological, reverse chronological, flashback

b. Write informative or explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, by developing the topic with relevant information or data from credible sources and using appropriate transitions and precise vocabulary.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting a claim, distinguishing the claim from opposing claims, presenting counterclaims and reasons, and citing accurate, relevant textual evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (9) -3 :
R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.
[ELA2021] (9) 9 :
9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.
[ELA2021] (10) -3 :
R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.
[ELA2021] (10) 9 :
9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.
Subject: English Language Arts (5 - 10)
Title: Songs of Our Lives: Using Lyrics to Write Stories
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/songs-lives-using-lyrics-30620.html
Description:

Students learn about the life of John Lennon through his lyrics in a breathtaking book, John's Secret Dreams: The Life of John Lennon by Doreen Rapaport. After studying the life of Lennon, students write a short story from their lives following the style of Rappaport by weaving lyrics from some of their favorite songs throughout. Finally, students create a classroom book including each student's story from their life.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -4 :
R3. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically when researching and writing, both individually and collaboratively.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (6) 13 :
13. Create and edit digital products that are appropriate in subject and purpose for a particular audience or occasion.

Examples: social media posts, blog posts, podcast episodes, infographics
[ELA2021] (6) 24 :
24. Write about research findings independently over short and/or extended periods of time.
[ELA2021] (7) -4 :
R3. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically when researching and writing, both individually and collaboratively.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives to convey a series of events incorporating key literary elements, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques (dialogue, pacing, description, and reflection), and sequencing events coherently (chronological and/or flashback).

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style to examine ideas or processes effectively while developing the topic and utilizing appropriate transitions, precise vocabulary, and credible information or data when relevant.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting claim(s), acknowledging alternate or opposing claims, and presenting reasons and relevant text evidence from accurate and credible sources.
[ELA2021] (7) 14 :
14. Create and edit digital products that are appropriate in subject, occasion, audience, purpose, and tone.
[ELA2021] (7) 23 :
23. Implement ethical guidelines while finding and recording information from a variety of primary, secondary, and digital sources.
[ELA2021] (7) 26 :
26. Produce research writings over extended periods with time for research, reflection, and revision and within shorter time frames, with minimal guidance.

Examples: a day or two, a single sitting
[ELA2021] (8) -4 :
R3. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically when researching and writing, both individually and collaboratively.
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) 1 :
1. Analyze how informational and graphic text elements, including allusions, point of view, purpose, comparisons, categories, and figurative, connotative, and technical word meanings, develop central and supporting ideas.
[ELA2021] (8) 8 :
8. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives that establish a clear purpose, use narrative techniques, and sequence events coherently.

Examples: narratives - memoir, short story, personal narrative; techniques - dialogue, pacing, description, reflection;
sequencing - chronological, reverse chronological, flashback

b. Write informative or explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, by developing the topic with relevant information or data from credible sources and using appropriate transitions and precise vocabulary.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting a claim, distinguishing the claim from opposing claims, presenting counterclaims and reasons, and citing accurate, relevant textual evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (8) 13 :
13. Create and edit digital products that are appropriate in subject, occasion, audience, point of view, purpose, and tone.
[ELA2021] (8) 25 :
25. Produce research writings independently over extended periods of time which encompass research, reflection, and revision and over shorter time frames.

Examples: a day or two, a single sitting
Subject: English Language Arts (6 - 8)
Title: Twenty-First Century Informational Literacy: Integrating Research Techniques and Technology
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/twenty-first-century-informational-30581.html?tab=1#tabs
Description:

This lesson incorporates graphic novels to help students expand their reading, writing, research, and technology skills. Students first read graphic novels to become familiar with the text structure, then research a self-selected topic using web-based resources. Students follow the research process and synthesize the information they obtained to create their graphic novel using the Comic Life software or other comic software. This unit works best with students who are already familiar with writing research papers.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 9 :
9. Participate in collaborative discussions about literary devices and elements found in prose and poetry.
[ELA2021] (7) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 9 :
9. Participate in collaborative discussions about prose and poetry by evaluating the use of literary devices and elements.
[ELA2021] (8) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) 10 :
10. Engage in coherent and collaborative discussions about prose and poetry by evaluating the use of literary devices and elements.
Subject: English Language Arts (6 - 8)
Title: Leading to Great Places in the Middle School Classroom
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/leading-great-places-middle-16.html
Description:

Tapping existing texts for models is one of the best strategies for writer's workshop. This lesson examines types of leads in prominent young adult literature and asks students to search for great leads and then try their own hand at writing leads. Students rank several leads from novels as they are read aloud, and then discuss their rankings. Working in small groups, students read alternative leads from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They then act as a marketing group to select the best lead. Next, students create two new leads for a novel, using different strategies for each. Finally, students apply this process to their own writing, working in pairs to create two alternative leads to something they have written.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (6) 19 :
19. Demonstrate command of standard English grammar, usage, and mechanics when writing.

a. Use commas, parentheses, or dashes to set off nonrestrictive or parenthetical elements.

b. Revise writing for correct mechanics with a focus on commas, apostrophes, quotation marks, colons, and semicolons.

c. Compose and revise writing by using various pronouns and their antecedents correctly.

Examples: personal, intensive, reflexive, demonstrative, relative, interrogative, indefinite

[ELA2021] (6) 24 :
24. Write about research findings independently over short and/or extended periods of time.
Subject: English Language Arts (6)
Title: Tell and Show: Writing With Words and Video
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/tell-show-writing-with-1099.html?tab=1#tabs
Description:

Students will enhance their multimedia literacy and expand their understanding of text in this hands-on unit. First, students watch and study digital videos and their transcripts to explore the differences between written and spoken text. As they think critically about the videos, students will discover how text and images can work together to convey information. Once students are comfortable with the ways in which images and words can support and enhance each other, they will apply what they've learned by writing essays and turning those essays into captions for a teacher-created video. At the end of the unit, students will have a documentary film that they have written and designed.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (6) -5 :
R2. Use context clues to determine meanings of unfamiliar spoken or written words.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 24 :
24. Write about research findings independently over short and/or extended periods of time.
Subject: English Language Arts (6)
Title: Using Word Webs to Teach Synonyms for Commonly Used Words
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/using-word-webs-teach-282.html
Description:

"I feel good." "It was nice." "That was bad." Students respond to teachers' questions with these generic descriptions all the time, leaving teachers to dig deeper to figure out what students are really trying to say. Second-language learners also struggle to use descriptive words in written and oral language and tend to overuse common words, such as good, bad, and nice, due to their lack of knowledge of specific synonyms. In this multisession lesson, word webs are used to expose students to synonyms for common words, to help students choose synonyms that are appropriate for a given context, and to encourage students to use more descriptive words in their speech and writing. Student pairs then use words from the web in a skit they present to the class.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 4 :
4. Describe the use of literary devices in prose and poetry, including simile, metaphor, personification, onomatopoeia, hyperbole, tone, imagery, irony, symbolism, and mood, and indicate how they support interpretations of the text.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (6) 9 :
9. Participate in collaborative discussions about literary devices and elements found in prose and poetry.
[ELA2021] (7) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 4 :
4. Evaluate literary devices to support interpretations of literary texts using textual evidence, including simile, metaphor, personification, onomatopoeia, hyperbole, imagery, tone, symbolism, irony, and mood.
[ELA2021] (7) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives to convey a series of events incorporating key literary elements, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques (dialogue, pacing, description, and reflection), and sequencing events coherently (chronological and/or flashback).

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style to examine ideas or processes effectively while developing the topic and utilizing appropriate transitions, precise vocabulary, and credible information or data when relevant.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting claim(s), acknowledging alternate or opposing claims, and presenting reasons and relevant text evidence from accurate and credible sources.
[ELA2021] (7) 9 :
9. Participate in collaborative discussions about prose and poetry by evaluating the use of literary devices and elements.
[ELA2021] (8) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) 4 :
4. Analyze the use of literary devices, including simile, metaphor, personification, onomatopoeia, hyperbole, imagery, tone, symbolism, irony, mood, and allusion, to support interpretations of literary texts, using textual evidence to support the analysis.
[ELA2021] (8) 8 :
8. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives that establish a clear purpose, use narrative techniques, and sequence events coherently.

Examples: narratives - memoir, short story, personal narrative; techniques - dialogue, pacing, description, reflection;
sequencing - chronological, reverse chronological, flashback

b. Write informative or explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, by developing the topic with relevant information or data from credible sources and using appropriate transitions and precise vocabulary.

c. Write an argument to defend a position by introducing and supporting a claim, distinguishing the claim from opposing claims, presenting counterclaims and reasons, and citing accurate, relevant textual evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (8) 10 :
10. Engage in coherent and collaborative discussions about prose and poetry by evaluating the use of literary devices and elements.
Subject: English Language Arts (6 - 8)
Title: Color of Silence: Sensory Imagery in Pat Mora's Poem
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/color-silence-sensory-imagery-1104.html
Description:

This classroom resource is an engaging lesson plan from ReadWriteThink that allows students to explore how writers use sensory imagery as a literary device to make the text more meaningful for the reader.  The lesson begins with the students using all of their senses to describe known objects such as pasta, chocolate, or grapes. Students first feel and listen to the object, in a bag, before taking it out of the bag to look at, smell, and taste it. They then use at least three senses to write a poem about the object they've described.  Next, they evaluate how this literary device functions in Pat Mora's poem “Echoes.” As students read this poem, they look for sensory images and write an explanation of how these images contribute to the meaning of Mora's poem. Finally, students think about how sensory images work in their own poems and then make appropriate revisions to their work.  The resource includes links to student interactives and printable handouts.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 13 :
13. Create and edit digital products that are appropriate in subject and purpose for a particular audience or occasion.

Examples: social media posts, blog posts, podcast episodes, infographics
[ELA2021] (6) 29 :
29. Use academic vocabulary in writing to communicate effectively.
[ELA2021] (7) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (7) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (7) 15 :
15. Utilize digital tools and/or products to enhance meaning.

Examples: hashtags, videos, slide presentations, audio clips, GIFS, memes; social media platforms
[ELA2021] (7) 32 :
32. Apply vocabulary in writing to convey and enhance meaning.
[ELA2021] (8) -6 :
R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.
[ELA2021] (8) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (8) 14 :
14. Utilize digital tools and/or products to enhance meaning.

Examples: hashtags, videos, slide presentations, audio clips, GIFS, memes, clips from social media
[ELA2021] (8) 32 :
32. Utilize appropriate vocabulary in various classroom, digital, and real-world situations to facilitate effective communication.
Subject: English Language Arts (6 - 8)
Title: Alphabiography Project: Totally You
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/alphabiography-project-totally-937.html
Description:

In this lesson, the traditional autobiography writing project is given a twist as students write alphabiographies—recording an event, person, object, or feeling associated with each letter of the alphabet. Students are introduced to the idea of the alphabiography through passages from James Howe's Totally Joe. Students then work with the teacher to create guidelines for writing their own alphabiographies. Students create an entry for each letter of the alphabet, writing about an important event from their lives. After the entry for each letter, students sum up the stories and vignettes by recording the life lessons they learned from the events. Since this type of autobiography breaks out of chronological order, students can choose what has been important in their lives. And since the writing pieces are short, even reluctant writers are eager to write!

See this updated link for the online Alphabet Organizer from ReadWriteThink.org.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
[ELA2021] (6) 7 :
7. Produce clear, coherent narrative, argument, and informative/explanatory writing in which the development, organization, style, and tone are relevant to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Write narratives incorporating key literary elements, including characters, plot, setting, point of view, resolution of a conflict, dialogue, and sensory details.

b. Write informative or explanatory texts with an organized structure and a formal style, incorporating a focused point of view, a clear purpose, credible evidence, and technical word meanings.

c. Write an argument to convince the reader to take an action or adopt a position, stating a claim and supporting the claim with relevant, well-organized evidence from credible sources.
[ELA2021] (6) 11 :
11. Utilize written, visual, digital, and interactive texts to generate and answer literal, interpretive, and applied questions.
[ELA2021] (6) 13 :
13. Create and edit digital products that are appropriate in subject and purpose for a particular audience or occasion.

Examples: social media posts, blog posts, podcast episodes, infographics
[ELA2021] (6) 14 :
14. Enhance oral presentations by introducing ideas in digital formats with specific attention to subject, occasion, audience, and purpose.

Examples: speaking to defend or explain a digital poster, multimedia presentation, or video
[ELA2021] (6) 19 :
19. Demonstrate command of standard English grammar, usage, and mechanics when writing.

a. Use commas, parentheses, or dashes to set off nonrestrictive or parenthetical elements.

b. Revise writing for correct mechanics with a focus on commas, apostrophes, quotation marks, colons, and semicolons.

c. Compose and revise writing by using various pronouns and their antecedents correctly.

Examples: personal, intensive, reflexive, demonstrative, relative, interrogative, indefinite

[ELA2021] (6) 24 :
24. Write about research findings independently over short and/or extended periods of time.
[ELA2021] (6) 28 :
28. Discover word meanings through active listening in various contexts.

Examples: classroom discussion, oral presentations, digital formats
Subject: English Language Arts (6)
Title: Highlighting Out-of-School Language Expertise With Pop Culture Dictionaries
URL: http://readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/highlighting-school-language-expertise-31144.html
Description:

Validate students' out-of-school language use by asking them to share details on the use of words and phrases from movies, television shows, books, and other texts. In this activity, students compose dictionary entries for words and phrases from pop culture texts, connecting the definitions to their personal use of the terms. Their work is published individually, or if desired, collectively in a class dictionary.


   View Standards     Standard(s): [SS2010] USS6 (6) 7 :
7 ) Identify changes on the American home front during World War II.

Example: rationing

•  Recognizing the retooling of factories from consumer to military production
•  Identifying new roles of women and African Americans in the workforce
•  Describing increased demand on the Birmingham steel industry and Port of Mobile facilities (Alabama)
•  Describing the experience of African Americans and Japanese Americans in the United States during World War II, including the Tuskegee Airmen and occupants of internment camps (Alabama)
[ELA2021] (6) -3 :
R4. Utilize a writing process to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish writings in various genres.
Subject: Social Studies (6), English Language Arts (6)
Title: Teaching Japanese American Incarceration Through Comics & Graphic Novels
URL: https://americanhistory.si.edu/sites/default/files/file-uploader/Incarceration-through-Comics-and-Graphic-Novels.pdf
Description:

In this learning activity, students will gather information about personal experiences of survivors of Japanese-American internment camps during World War II. Students communicate the information they learn by creating their own comic to retell the story of the survivors. Resource links to videos, journals, articles, comic book template and artwork are included in the material. 


ALEX Classroom Resources: 14

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