Q1 Newsletter: LA 7

Au gus t 11 , 2 01 6
Cl ay M i ddl e S c hool

Mrs . D i S al vo
T e a m Atl as

Writers Workshop:
Writing Realistic Fiction
Short Stories:
We will read a
selection of short
stories this
quarter. The
focus of
instruction while
reading these

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 stories. Some of these skills
include building strong characters, creating tension, moving
characters through space and time, and enhancing syntax to
increase voice. During writers workshop, students will not only
work independently, but they will also conference with a writing
partner and with Mrs. DiSalvo.

stories will be on

The Outsiders

review of literary
elements, how
authors develop
themes, and how
a words can
impact meaning
and tone.

Our core text in quarter one is The Outsiders, a story about a

teenage boy who struggles to make good decisions as he faces
difficult conflicts in his life. We will read some of the novel in
class, but students will be expected to read outside of class as
well. Students will examine how S.E. Hinton develops
themes across the text. We will also examine the strength of
characters and how the setting impacts the choices they make
and who they become. Using the Socratic method, students
will engage in discussions about the story. We will conclude
the quarter by watching the film adaptation of this novel.

Quarter 1 Assessments and Grade Breakdown

30%
30%
30%
10%

Reading Assessment
Writing Assessment
Other (homework, warm-ups, etc)
Stems Quizzes List 5 (no retakes)

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