Writing: Sentence Fluency Part 2--12 Weeks

In this multi-day course, students will practice their writing skills. This is an intermediate class and we will practice writing complex sentences. This includes two part sentences. 

Below is a general outline of what will be covered. Students will have homework and if they turn it in to me completed, I am happy to review it with them. Many students do not return work to me so there is no way for me to go over it with them. If you would like feedback, the homework must be submitted.

Lesson 1: Students will use subordinating conjunctions, or, what I call 'starter words'. This is a sentence using a phrase and sentence to convey a complete thought. First, students will identify starter words, the phrase, and then the sentence. We will review a few examples after which students will write their own sentences to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 2: Students will continue to use subordinating conjunctions, or, what I call 'starter words'. This is a sentence using a phrase and sentence to convey a complete thought. First, students will identify starter words, the phrase, and then the sentence. We will review a few examples after which students will write their own sentences to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 3: Students will expand their writing using -ing phrases. Similar to starter word sentences, the same structure will be used. First, students will practice identifying -ing phrases. Next they will see examples of sentences. Finally, they will write their own sentences using -ing words to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 4: Students will continue to expand their writing using -ing phrases. Similar to starter word sentences, the same structure will be used. First, students will practice identifying -ing phrases. Next they will see examples of sentences. Finally, they will write their own sentences using -ing words to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 5: Students will expand their writing using -ed phrases. Similar to starter word sentences, the same structure will be used. First, students will practice identifying -ed phrases. Next they will see examples of sentences. Finally, they will write their own sentences using -ed words to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 6: Students will continue to expand their writing using -ed phrases. Similar to starter word sentences, the same structure will be used. First, students will practice identifying -ed phrases. Next they will see examples of sentences. Finally, they will write their own sentences using -ed words to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 7: Students will practice using 'who' and 'to whom'. Knowing when and how to use who/whom can be confusing. Being able to identify when to use these words, and recognizing that they are not interchangeable, will improve students' writing. First, students will practice identifying who/whom in sentences and what they notice about their use. Next they will see examples of sentences. Finally, they will write their own sentences using who/whom to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 8: That, Which, and Where. It is just as easy to misunderstand the correct use of 'that' or 'which'. One is used when giving new information and one when the information is already known. We will also review the use of 'where' when it is used to begin a phrase. First, students will practice identifying that/which/where in sentences. Next they will see examples of them used correctly. Finally, they will write their own sentences to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 9: Students will learn to use noun cutters. This will be combining their knowledge of using 'starter words', -ing/-ed phrases; who/that/which/where; to create more complex sentences. First, students will practice identifying what they have learned in previous lessons. Next they will see examples of more complex sentences. Finally, they will write their own sentences to show comprehension. Students will be provided with a handout to write on or they can use notebook paper.

Lesson 10: Application. Students will correct a piece of writing that I have provided using the skills they have learned in this class. Student will need notebook paper and a writing utensil. Handouts may also be provided, please check the classroom page.  

Lesson 11: Application. Students will write an essay using the skills they have learned in this class. Students will need to complete the essay and return it to me prior to class so I have time to review it. During class, we will review homework, have time for questions, and review anything we need to go back over. 

Lesson 12: Left open in case we need more time on a certain topic. If not needed, we will apply what we have learned in writing a short text.

My goal is to create a meaningful class where students grow in experience and confidence. I hope that students feel comfortable asking questions, encouraging, and challenging one another to create better writing. 

This will assist students in improving their writing fluency; granting them a better overall composition and the ability to move through a paper smoothly. Students will move toward writing above grade level when using as they master these lessons. 

Writing can seem overwhelming. By breaking down the writing process, using some simple tools and outlines, students will find success! 

Students will have opportunity to ask questions and engage with other students. 

This class will use a combination of lecture, powerpoint, handouts, interaction, and class participation for those who are comfortable with it, to assist students with learning.