Jago - Chapter 2

In 8th grade we did a cross curricular History/English paper.  We worked with both teachers, researched, drafted, and rewrote until it was polished.  We were allowed to choose any subject relating to history and choose the style of our paper.  We had a list of specific parameters, such as length, number of sources to cite, and the inclusion of photographs or other visuals that would enhance the written work.  This was such a huge assignment, and many of our first research papers, and the fact that we were given a choice to write on something that interested us individually really made the assignment worthwhile.  I will never forget that I wrote on the history of our national anthem.  I remember dates, pictures I used, and quotes.  And I also remember the comments my teachers made.  The connection to a particular assignment allows the student to write well and remember their efforts.

After the History/English paper, we began to do persuasive essays in a similar style to our research paper.  Since we had such good comments and mastered a style, it was easy to transition to persuasive writing.  We took parts of our research paper and reworked them to persuade the class on something related to our topic.  Again, this really engages the writer and sets them up for success.  Persuasive writing can be extremely difficult, but by exposing them to many persuasive essays, they will become better accustomed to writing it.