Type III Prompt-Writing Assignment

Classification Informational Essay

Name________________________________________________________________________________

Subject: Language Arts Due

Date_______________________________

Assignment Summary/Directions and Rationale:

Using the 4 square graphic organizer or Classification Chart filled with research; write an
informative essay classifying a topic into groups, giving details about group members,
examples of group members, and criteria. Be sure to include an introductory paragraph to
establish topic, a body paragraph for each group within the topic, and a concluding
paragraph. The body paragraphs should include the following: a definition, examples of
group members, as well as a description of criteria for the group. Assemble classifying essay
on poster provided; include graphic aids.
Writer’s Purpose(s)
 Informative Persuasive Narrative
 Classifying Persuade Entertain

Audience—Teacher Form: Essay Poster or Booklet Point of View:

____________

FCA _____/5 pts. Introductory and concluding paragraphs well written

FCA _____/15pts. Each body paragraph contains classifying information in DS -name of

group, criteria for group, facts about group, group members or examples
FCA _____/5 pts. Transition words are used for effective sequencing and precise word
choice is used to improve fluency and content of essay.

Graphics _____/5 pts.

Grand Total _____/30 pts.

o Read your writing out loud in a one-inch voice. Correct any confusing parts.
o Edit your FCA's, conference with teacher
o Proofread for spelling/capitalization/punctuation errors
o Have a peer proofread your paper

PSSA Writing Rubric/Checklist Teacher will circle ones that apply.

FOCUS easy to understand some type beginning middle end limited ideas, if any
CONTENT details are clear some detail limited detail, if any
ORGANIZATION good sequence of events some events sequenced
little evidence of sequence
STYLEvaried word choices/sentences words/sentences appropriate; limited or no word choice
MECHANICS few errors some mistakes, still readable mistakes make unreadable

Classification Expository/Informative Report: Choice List

Renewable/Alternative Energy Source-wind, tidal, bio-fuels/gas, nuclear, solar, hydroelectric,

geothermal

Galaxies-Spiral, Elliptical, Irregular

Stars: by size-Dwarf, Giant, Super Giant; by temperature-Blue, White, Yellow, Orange, Red; by type-
Protostar, Tauri star, Neutron star

Rocks-Metamorphic, Igneous, Sedimentary

Clouds-Stratus, Cumulus, Cirrus

Planets-Inferior/Inner ; Superior/Outer; Gas Giant

Meteors-meteoroids, meteorites, meteors

Space Objects-pulsars, quasars, black holes

Forest Biomes-Temperate Deciduous; Tropical Rain, Boreal

Subtropical Forests-Mediterranean; Temperate; Coniferous; Montane; Plantation

Tropical Systems-tropical depression, tropical storm, hurricane

Winter Storms-ice storm, snow storm, blizzard, Nor'easter, Witches of November

Gemstones/Jewels-crystals, stones, organic gems (see A-Z Gems book)

Deserts-(See A-Z Desert Peoples and The Mighty Saguaro Cactus; Kids Discover Magazine Desert)

 Extremely Arid; Arid; Semi-Arid

 Tropical/subtropical; Warm temperate deserts; Cool- temperate; Arctic- alpine

Automobiles-sedan, coupe, wagon, mini-van, SUV, truck

Sports-Contact/Collision; Limited Contact/Impact; Non-contact OR...

 Classification Chart

Topic to Sort

Category or Group Category or Group Category or Group

Definition of Category or Definition of Category or Definition of Category or

Group Group Group

Examples of Category Examples of Category Examples of Category

Members/Description Members/Description Members/Description