Student Growth Goals

 During the school year, all ELA students will complete 5-6 writing samples using a strategy known as Claim Evidence Reasoning.  These are not graded assignments, but are used as data/proof of writing growth.  We have adapted the district's sixth grade rubric specific to the CCSS skills to measure improvement in ELA  writing and language criteria.  And then we create thought provoking, but fun writing prompts that motivate students to WANT to write and improve their writing.

What is a C.E.R.?

C.E.R. is a strategy used for opinion/persuasive/argument writing and science responses.

With the introduction to C.E.R, the kids noticed that this strategy resembled another writing strategy that they have used in past grades.  By connecting them via the anchor chart below, they were able to see that C.E.R. is not necessarily "new" concept, but a different approach to something familiar. 

After each C.E.R., I assess writing progress and conclude what next steps need to be administered with each student's skills.  In the pics above, are the anchor charts that represent the mini-lessons that were taught in between C.E.R.s 1 and 2.  

I will continue to post the mini-lessons from C.E.R. to C.E.R. to keep everyone updated.