Fall Semester 2010-2011 Final Exam: 9th & 10th Grades

Here is the Final Exam Essay Assignment:

The Essay

Prompt (Assertion/Thesis): Write a persuasive essay explaining what grade you deserve and how you have earned that grade.

• Give eXamples of what we did during each unit
• Explain what you learned by doing the work
• Lastly, describe the Significance the learning had for you as a student and a person

A great essay will also include reflection on what you did well and what you could have done better.

Step 1: Small Group Discussion
In poster form...

Give eXamples of three assignments we did during your unit

Explain what we learned (or were supposed to learn) by doing each assignment
Describe how what you learned had academic and/or personal Significance
Step 2: Small Group Presentations
Present your poster to the class.
Students will take notes on your presentations.
Step 3: Pre-Writing
Turn your notes from the six presentations into AXES graphic organizers.
You will need one graphic organizer for each body paragraph.
Step 4: 1st Draft
Introductory Paragraph: You may lead into your thesis with an overview of your academic performance this semester. Your Intro Paragraph should end with your thesis statement.

An example of a thesis statement would be:  I have earned an A in this class by consistently turning in all of my work and taking advantage of all the extra credit opportunities.

Body Paragraphs: Turn your AXES graphic organizers into body paragraphs. Each body paragraph does not need to have its own thesis.  You need to have at least one body paragraph per unit!
Concluding paragraph: This is a good place to include some reflective writing in addition to your summary info.
Step 5: Final Draft - Due at the end of the Final Exam period
You will write your final draft in class during the Final Exam period.
Alternative: You may type up your final draft before your Final Exam period and turn it in at that time.

Please note all steps in the assignment (except the alternative typed copy option) will be done in class. It is up to each student to monitor their own progress and complete steps at home for homework if necessary.

Work hard, be thoughtful and you'll do great!