LITERACY TEST Thursday March 30th Please check the lists in the main office to find out where you will write the test.

Writing a Series of Paragraphs

Series of Paragraphs - Strategy Decide whether you agree or disagree with the statement Brainstorm and decide on reasons why you hold that opinion (try to come up with at least three), and an example from your own experience that supports each reason Write an introductory paragraph, making sure it clearly states your opinion Write at least one body paragraph. Aim for TWO! In each body paragraph give one reason for your opinion and then use examples from your own experience to discuss your opinion. Write a concluding paragraph which summarizes your opinion

Let’s Practice Yes No Students won’t be judged For each of the following statements decide if you agree or disagree with the comment: Students must complete work experience as part of their diploma. Graduated licensing is effective. Dogs make better pets than cats. Downloading music from the Internet should be free and legal. Brainstorming: You can make a chart of Yes/No responses to help decide on your opinion. Example: School uniforms are a good idea. Yes No Students won’t be judged Students can’t express themselves

Sample Question Topic: Is participation in extracurricular activities an important part of secondary school life?

Thinking: Topic: Is participation in extracurricular activities an important part of secondary school life? Do you agree or disagree? What are 2/3 reasons for your opinion? Think of an example that backs up each of your reasons. Hint: On test day, you should use the Rough Notes section to do your planning!

Format Paragraph 1 (introduction) Paragraph 3: What is your opinion? (Fill in the blank with IS or IS NOT) Use a topic sentence to introduce your second reason. I believe that participation ______________________ an important part of secondary school life. POINT #2 (Reason#2) PROOF #2 (Example(s) from your experience) Introduce 2 reasons Paragraph 4 (conclusion) Paragraph 2: 3 sentences Use a topic sentence to introduce your first reason. Restate your opinion and your reasons. POINT #1 (Reason#1) PROOF #1 (Example(s) from your experience)

Sample Code 60 Response – Part 1 Students who participate in extracurricular activities in high school have greater advantages than those who do not, which is why participation in these activities is significant. Extracurricular activities such as sports, photography, groups or books clubs, are a few of the many groups that can enhance a student’s academic performance. It is important that a high school student joins an extra curricular activity to develop co-operation skills, organizational skills and to increase chances of having academic rewards. Students who take part in books clubs or sports develop skills that allow them to work well with others. For instance, a person who plays volleyball is able to negotiate, co-operate, compromise, share, and socialize more confidently than one who is not used to stepping outside of his/her comfort zone. Extracurricular activities provide a way for teens to get to know each other and improve their socializing skills to ultimately enhance their secondary school experience. Not only do teens develop skills in interaction, but they also improve their organizational skills. A student who is able to finish their homework and make practice on time is a student who can prioritize, set goals, and manage their time. These qualities are highly beneficial to the student’s future when it comes to finding their career path, which is why mastering these attributes in high school in important. Extracurricular activities teach a student how to excel in that particular activity and how to use those skills in the classroom. If these tasks are practiced well, they will become good habits that can increase chances of acceptance into a college or university of their choice.

Sample Code 60 Response – Part 2 Students who have experience in extracurricular activities have more options when it comes to applying for colleges, university and for scholarships. For example, a student who gets good grades and is able to juggle a sport or club is more likely to possess the qualities needed in obtaining a scholarship that specializes in that sport or club in comparison to a student who did not have the same experience. Ultimately, universities want to see that you can put effort into maintaining good grades, but also that you went the extra mile to do your best. As a result, students who enhance their skills in communication and organization through extra curricular activities are more likely to receive a greater benefit such as getting accepted into an elite university or saving money by receiving a scholarship. Even after university and college, the skills achieved from joining these activities will be a benefit in the long run because, after all, the more effort and hard work you put into something, the greater the reward.

Series of Paragraphs Practice As a class, decide whether you agree or disagree with the following statements. Come up with 2 reasons with examples to support your decision. Follow the chart on the next slide. Students should walk to school. Social media is necessary in teenagers’ lives. All college and university programs must have work experiences(co-op) for students.

Practice Chart Opinion statement: Agree or disagree with this statement. Example: All students Reason 1 Example(s) Reason 2

Series of Paragraphs – After Writing, check: Checklist: I have at least 3 paragraphs. My opinion piece is related to the prompt. My first paragraph clearly states my opinion. My opinion is consistently either Pro or Con (agree or disagree); NOT BOTH. I have transition words (i.e. therefore, for example, etc.). I have a clear introduction and conclusion. My conclusion restates my opinion and summarizes my main points. I have a minimum of 2 body paragraphs with a reason and example(s) in each. I have a thoughtful progression of ideas-- each of my points builds up to the conclusion.

Any Questions? See Mrs. Johnston before school, at lunch, or afterschool in Room 310. 2. Look over the Lit. Test resources on our school webpage and at EQAO.com.