Formal Paragraph Writing

Best for Ages 8-12
45-minute weekly class

Class Structure

We will use a group approach first, then learners will write an individual paragraph they can share and get feedback on during the group or privately with the teacher after class.

Classes will roughly follow this timeline:

15 minutes open discussion about sandwich analogy and breaking down the parts of a paragraph
10 minutes group writing of paragraph, first using a graphic organizer and learner ideas
5 minutes spinning wheel for three topics for learners to choose from
15 minutes for individual writing using a graphic organizer first with teacher guidance available
5 minutes to wrap up and share (if desired)

Learning

Using open discussion and the sandwich analogy, learners will explore the parts of a well-written paragraph and create one as a group. Topics will randomly be determined by the Wheel of Topics. The teacher will guide the students in brainstorming discussions, using the graphic organizer, and writing the paragraph. The results will be a strong, cohesive paragraph that includes a topic sentence, two or more detail sentences, and a conclusion.

Each class's goal is to write a group paragraph and an individual paragraph.

Objectives

Students will:

-understand, remember, and use topic sentences
-understand, remember, and use detailed sentences
-understand, remember, and use a summary or suggestive conclusion
-write a different paragraph for each class they assist
-learn to avoid repetition when writing
-understand the value and use a graph organizer before writing
-value feedback from others to help make their writing stronger

Miscellaneous

As an ongoing class, each class will stand alone. Learners will not need to attend prior classes to participate and can enroll and withdraw as needed.

For English as a Second Language Learners (ESL):
-Suitable for GEPT and FCE Writing Part 1 exams
-Ideal for B2 learners and B1 learners seeking exam preparation