October 5

Informative writing is about informing the reader of information. This isn't about opinion or bias; this about the facts. It's also called "expository" writing.

For example, I may assign students to write an informative essay on a college degree (major) of their choice. In the essay, they would tell me what schools offer that degree plan, what kind of courses are on that degree plan and what kind of careers graduates with that degree could pursue.

Activity: I begin the class by posing a question to students. I will tell them that I do not know how to work my ipod, and ask them to explain the process to me. As they offer suggestions, I will write them on the board creating webs and/or an outline. Afterward, I will explain that this is how you begin an informative essay. I will then do my lesson on informative essays.


Persuasive writing- when a person writes to convince someone of a opinion by supporting that opinion with facts. This is the most powerful form of writing.

Ex) I may assign my students to write a persuasive essay on a controversial issue.

Activity: At the beginning of each class I will present two ideas that we could use in a  future class date: one idea will be boring, and require a whole lot of work. The other idea will be intriguing and interesting to students. Then, I will ask the class which idea we should do. I will ask them why. I will explain that their arguments will actually determine which assignment I give them. I will make a T-Chart on the board and list their ideas/arguments about which idea is better. Afterward, I will explain that we have begun forming a persuasive argument and also point out how important it is to be able to create a persuasive argument.