Include a summary sentence at the end, if you wish.
Incorporate a variety of sentences: long and short, simple and complex.
Student example:
Framed Paragraph
Weather in Montana is erratic. First…Second…Then…It is hard to believe.
Weather in Montana is erratic. First, it doesn’t get cold until December. Second, there isn’t any snow for Christmas. Throughout January it changes from warm to cold, and in February it snows more. Then, in March, it is sixty degrees until the last days when it snows. It is hard to believe that weather can be so different.
Use concepts from your content area to provide a review or to build background.
Power
Paragraph
Helps student develop simple paragraphs and to structure essay exams.
Begin with simple 1-2-2-2 structures end with another power 1
1. My three favorite sports
2. Skiing
2. Roller Blading
2. Tennis
My three favorite sports are skiing, roller blading, and tennis. Skiing is a great way to get through the winter. I love the feel of gliding through the snow. Roller blading builds balance and strong muscles. I really enjoy skating around town. Finally, I love playing tennis. It is so much fun to run around the court and hit the ball. I always feel so good when I hit a clean shot over the net. My three favorite sports keep me healthy and happy.
RAFT
Components of writing:
Role, Audience, Format, Topic
Broadens students’ understanding of writing possibilities.
Makes writing assignment specific and well focused.
Over the past three days, you have seen and heard much evidence and testimony in this case. The defendant, charged with disorderly conduct for screaming “fire” in the middle of a crowded theatre, claims that his arrest violates his right to free speech. I am here to explain to you and to him that that is not so. Rules and laws in our country are established to protect the rights of all people.
Spool
System for organizing information
Introductory paragraph with thesis
Body
Conclusion
Used as a transition to independent writing
Effective for essay examinations and research papers
Spool
Paper
Introductory Paragraph starts with a lead (Power 0). The last sentence is the thesis (Power 1).
Body contains at least two paragraphs. Each paragraph deals with one of the topics in the thesis (Power 2’s) and includes support (Powers 3 and 4).
Concluding Paragraph starts with a restatement of the thesis (Power 1), followed by Power 0’s.
A famous philosopher once said that a mind is not a vessel to be filled, rather it is a fire to be kindled. Briefly state your thoughts about this statement. How do you think your style of teaching can be adapted to this thought?
