Key components of expository writing

Today we learned these key components of expository writing. Over the next several week we will be learning to use these as we write a research essay. It is important that the students master these components so they can focus more on the writing. Students should study these each night as they will be quizzed over them.

 Expository writing defines, persuades, informs and/or explains.
 Introductory or lead paragraph invites the reader to explore the topic.
 Thesis/Topic statement reveals overall purpose of the writing.
 Body consists of three or more points, descriptions, or examples.
 Concluding paragraph restates the thesis and offers the reader the
opportunity to reflect further on the topic.
 Contains a topic body and closing paragraph

Our vocabulary words this week are: apprehensive, destination, jostle, meander, meticulous and narrator

Welcome Trimester 2

As trimester one wraps up, we can look back at how far we've come. This year so far we have learned how to summarize both fiction and non-fiction texts, explored our past literacy experiences as we wrote a narrative, learned how to truly revise our writing, came to understand the benefits of previewing a text and most importantly, we learned why we should read! And read we have! The district reading initiative sets a goal of 1400 pages per student for the year, and so far we have 23 students who have met or surpassed that already. We can't forget the 26 students who are very very close to this goal and will surpass it by Winter break!

I am so proud of all of the students. Each day they come in ready to do their best. One of the best parts is, if they're not ready that day, they are willing to let me push them. This shows true resilience!

Over the next trimester, we will be exploring the structure and purpose of expository writing. With this will come more practice with revision. We have 100 vocabulary words to learn (more if we finish those), similarities and differences to look at, figurative language to explore and the elements of literature to learn. Hopefully, you will see us grow as you read our blogs and hear our voices. Please continue to give us feedback as you read our writing.

As we drift into that busy holiday season, please keep books in mind as gifts. Kids like having the latest book all to themselves. There are plenty of links on the class blog that will help you find the latest and greatest. I will also be sending Scholastic book orders home next week.

Keep your kids reading and if you have questions or feedback, please let me know.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Benson

(I am currently reading "It's Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini)