11/9 Early Release Agenda: 7th Grade

*Make sure you sign in electronically and on paper. Also, fill out Dr. Cozads Evaluation Form*
Click here to electronically sign into the session AND for the Feedback Survey Everyone needs
to complete this after the training.

Goal 1- First 45 minutes

Using Journeys and Collections as the major source of information, share approaches,
practices, and strategies to writing that will help provide a common approach and standardized
vocabulary. What parts of the program need to be emphasized? What techniques could be used
to help students with state testing? Share and discuss the rubric used in your grade. BRING
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES READY TO SHARE WITH YOUR COLLEAGUES!

1. How are we currently writing in each content area? Current practices- share out
a. How do our students struggle when it comes to writing? Give specific examples
b. Are we or how can we use common writing vocabulary across all content areas?
c. How are we assessing writing?
d. How are we incorporating writing currently?

2. District Writing Rubrics for 7th Grade

a. Informative Writing Rubric
b. Argument/Opinion Writing Rubric
c. Suggestions, comments, improvements, etc.

3. Scored Student Writing Samples for AIR Assessment

a. Scored Writing Samples

4. ACE- Short answer responses

a. Answer, Cite, Explain
b. A Prezi you can show your students on how to use ACE
c. A sample Informational Text using ACE
d. Science-based text using ACE

5. Graphic Organizers
a. Informative Essay Graphic Organizers
b. Argument/Opinion Graphic Organizers

Goal 2- Second 45 minutes

Determine what specific writing piece should be used at the end of each unit in Journeys and
Collections. Utilize the links on the website, the appendix in the program resources, and the
Writing Sequence document. Explain what specific writing piece is being recommended and
where it can be found in the program resources. Should it be done online or on paper?
Meet with your content area and consider the following:
 1. How are you currently using writing in your content area?
2. In what ways do you think teaching writing can be common in all content areas?
3. What resources, organizers or programs do you currently use when teaching or
assessing writing?
4. In what ways can we work toward standardizing writing for the district? What
suggestions do you have for making this happen?

**Please document your discussion via Google Doc or pen and paper and bring to me at
the end of the day. I will take this to our Writing Committee Professional Development
next week and we will use your input and suggestions to guide our work. Thanks!**