Q1 Newsletter: Honors LA 7

Au gus t 15 , 201 6
Cl ay M i ddl e S c hool

Mrs . D i S al vo
Te a m A tl as

Mysterious Circumstances
Mystery Literature
Circle Book
Options:

Murder on the
Orient Express by
Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie
The Beekeepers
Apprentice by
Laurie King

Arthur Conan Doyle

Shelter by Harlan
Coben

Using a writers workshop model, we will discuss how writers create

realistic fiction stories. Students will examine excerpts and model
texts to find evidence of skills we learn in class and then apply these
to their own writing. Some of these skills include plotting a story,
building strong characters, creating tension, moving characters
through space and time, and enhancing syntax to increase voice.

Hound of the
Baskervilles by Sir

Writers Workshop:
Writing Realistic Fiction

And Then There

Were None by

We have begun reading a variety of short mystery stories from the

Mysterious Circumstances text. We will review literary elements
(structures) as we read these selections. In addition, we will discuss
the characteristics of mysteries and how writers use structural
elements to create suspense.

Confessions of a
Murder Suspect by
James Patterson

Mystery Literature Circles

Students will choose and read at least one mystery literature circle
title. In class, students will discuss the plot, characters, motifs,
symbolism, and elements of suspense within the novel. Students
will have a variety of short assignments to go along with upcoming
discussion topics. Finally, students will use technology to create an
original project tied to the quarter one mystery unit.

Quarter 1 Assessments and Grade Breakdown

30%
30%
30%
10%

Reading Assessment
Writing Assessment
Other (homework, warm-ups, etc)
WWW Quizzes Lists 16-18 (no retakes)

Contact Information
Please do not hesitate to
contact me for any reason. My
email address is
bdisalvo@ccs.k12.in.us.