POWER WRITING!

The Basics Power writing is a simple way to teach writing using a series of NUMBERS and their corresponding meanings.

Power 1 Sentence Always uses a number word. Introduces the paragraph or paper. Only one “new” power 1 sentence in an essay. Examples 1) George Washington was an amazing president for several reasons. 1) My bedroom is unique in many ways.

Example (Intro Paragraph 1-2-2-2) Power 2 Sentence Always tells more about the power 1 sentence. There are usually MANY power 2 sentences in an essay. Each power 2 will start a new paragraph. Example (Intro Paragraph 1-2-2-2) 1) Mrs. Guice is a good teacher for several reasons. 2) One reason is because she is patient. 2) Another trait that Mrs. Guice has that makes her a good teacher is that she is kind to the children. 2) Finally Mrs. Guice has the ability to work well with a variety of children and adults.

Power 3, 4 , 5 and so on Each higher number tells MORE about the lower number that came before it. Example (2-3-4-3-4) 2) Mrs. Guice’s patience has no limits. 3)She works with all kids until they have mastered the concepts. 4) For example, in math she must have spent a whole month teaching fractions until there were no more questions. 3) When a child does something wrong she guides them and models the appropriate behavior until it sinks in. 4) Poor little Johnny wouldn’t survive in any other classroom.

Essay Structure EXAMPLE Introduction Paragraph (1-2-2-2) Body 1 (2-3-4-3-4-3-4) Body 2 (2-3-4-3-4-5) Body 3 (2-3-3-4-5-6) Conclusion (1-2) 5 Total Paragraphs

Basic Web Example Mrs. Guice 1-2-2-2 Patient 2-3-4-3-4-5 Kind 2-3-4-5-3-4 Works well 2-3-3-4-5-6 ? ? ? ? ? ?

Strategies MODEL on overhead on a regular basis. Show student writing on overhead and discuss the good AND bad points. Have student read introduction paragraph to the class. See if other students can “hear” the three main points (power 2s). Use webs. Use checklists. AFTER students have the basics then you can help them build vocabulary and strengthen sentences.