Ms.

Newman’s 8th Grade Language Arts

Unit Six: The Power of Communication

Final Essay Assignment Sheet & Rubric
Important Due Dates:
o 3/19: Begin brainstorming and researching
o 3/21: Bring research notes and ideas to class
o 3/25: Bring research notes and ideas to class
o 3/27: Introduction paragraph and body paragraph outline due in class for
peer editing
o 3/29: Full draft due for in-class workshop day and peer editing
o 4/2: Final Essay due at the beginning of the period
Assignment Overview:
At the conclusion of this unit, your task is to write a formal, 4-5 page essay based on the novel
Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson, that shows your understanding of the unit’s goals and learning targets.
In this essay, you will choose one theme we have discussed in previous class periods (i.e bullying,
isolation, communication, etc.) in congruence with one social topic/issue prevalent in today’s society (i.e
social media, women’s rights, sexual assault, etc.) and draft a well-written, focused paper. The social
issue you choose to research should align with and support your chosen theme. During the drafting stages
of this assignment, you are required to meet with me to discuss the goals of your paper. Please come
prepared with your thesis already in the works.
Assignment Checklist:
Introduction:
o A well-developed thesis statement to guide your essay
o A clear introductory statement or hook
Body Paragraphs:
o Development of ideas stated in your thesis statement
o Textual support; at least 2-3 direct quotations (from Speak)
o Supporting evidence; at least 1-2 credible, outside sources to support your ideas (from research
about your chosen social issue)
o Adherence to MLA format
Conclusion:
o Recall thesis statement
o Wrap up ideas in an efficient and interesting way
o Conclude essay with a powerful and cumulative statement that summarizes the ideas shared in
your essay
Conventions:
o Essay is written in a formal voice and adheres to all conventional writing standards
o Quotations and supporting evidence is cited in MLA format; this includes the Works Cited page
o Little to no grammatical errors
o Proper heading and title