The of Writing

Let’s Practice Our ABC’s: Write an essay in which you explain the influence of reality T.V. Discuss the impact this form of entertainment has on today’s teenagers. Be sure to use specific details and examples.

Attack the Prompt Cross out the words “Write an essay” Circle any word that asks you to do something Draw an arrow from each circled word to what it specifically tells you to do Under the prompt, rewrite and number the circled words. Next to each word, rewrite what the word asks you to do

Brainstorm: What can I use to respond to this prompt? Brainstorm a list of possible ideas/topics (at least 4) Don’t stop at one idea/topic Choose the strongest of the those listed Which one do you know the most about? Is it relevant to the task? Does it support your response? Brainstorm the details for the chosen idea/topic in the order of your rewritten prompt Refer to your numbered list Continue this process for each numbered point in your prompt

With an elbow partner… Share your brainstorm list Cross out anything that is similar to that of your elbow partner. Remember, you don’t want to state the obvious New ideas may pop up in your discussion; that’s fine!!! Just jot them down.

Choose the order Revisit your brainstorm lists Choose the order of your response (organization) and number them in the order you intend to present this information. The prompt may be asking you to do one of the following things: Show cause and effect Explain the problem and solution Compare and contrast

Now, Draft a thesis statement based on your ABC’s Remember the thesis formula: Topic (reality T.V.) + Opinion (What I think about it) + Why or How (because…)

Now, Draft a thesis statement based on your ABC’s Remember the thesis formula: Topic (reality T.V.) + Opinion (What I think about it) + Why or How (because…) Reality TV highly influences and dictates the decisions and actions of teenagers because they are highly impressionable and seek acceptance at this vulnerable age.

This may seem like a long process, but… that is because I walked you through the prewrite process. Once comfortable with the steps, this should take you approximately six (6) minutes or less. 2 minutes for ATTACKING the prompt 2 minutes for BRAINSTORMING 2 minutes for CHOOSING AN ORDER

Now you know your ABC’s, next time… Write an essay in which you identify an thought-provoking universal theme conveyed by a specific piece of literature. Explain how the theme can be applied to a real-world event. Be sure to provide relevant details.

Timed Write #1

Timed Write #2

Timed Write #3

Your choice… Choose one of the timed writes to take to a final copy Draft the essay as you’ve outlined in ABC

ABC Detect Errors BEFORE Turning the Draft In Surface revision Changing: A word A phrase A sentence VS. Deep revision Changing the: Focus of the piece Purpose of the piece Sequence of the piece Discourse Point of view

“Pimp My Write” Surface revision

“Pimp My Write” Deep revision

never your final (unless it’s a timed write) Your 1st drafts are: never your final (unless it’s a timed write) Drafts constantly evolve not supposed to be pretty and error free This is why we edit (surface) and revise (deep)