The 4-square organizer is a tool that students can use to help them plan and organize any argument essay.  In this course, students will be taught how to use the 4-square organizer to write an argument essay.  Over the course of four lessons, students will learn how to organize argument essays, craft thesis statements, create body paragraphs that contain relevant evidence and move their arguments forward, and write strong counterarguments.  Each lesson will focus on a different part of the argument essay.  By the end of the class, students will have written a well organized five-paragraph argument essay.

Lesson 1:  Students will learn how to use the 4-square organizer to plan out their argument essays.

Lesson 2:  Students will learn how to write strong openings and craft thesis statements.

Lesson 3:  Students will learn how to write body paragraphs that contain topic sentences, relevant evidence, and strong reasoning.

Lesson 4:  Students will learn how to write counterargument paragraphs and closing paragraphs.

Students will be given feedback on their writing during class.  They are strongly encouraged to share their writing in the Outschool classroom to receive written feedback and suggestions.