Lesson Ten: Writing the Body Paragraph (second in-class writing assignment)

Today, as every Friday, the students are in the computer lab. They will compose the second body paragraph of the semester, for which they have already developed a complete outline.

Once again today, I will use a very brief slideshow (three slides) to help them begin the composition process. In the presentation, I review the purpose of an outline, demonstrate how to develop a topic sentence from the main idea on the outline, how to use the first transitional word, compose the first reason, and develop the details. Since the focus of this week’s lectures and homework assignments was recognizing and developing specific and visual details, I will encourage students to pay close attention to the quality of their details.

The use of technology for today’s lesson is simple and brief, but powerful. Repeating the visual demonstration of how to begin and proceed in the composition of the body paragraph reinforces this pivotal procedure since the similar demonstration of one week ago. So powerful is the repetition of this demonstration that I will use it for the third and last time (unless the needs of the group dictate otherwise) when they write their third in-class essay two weeks from today.

Concerns and Revision Ideas: I would like to refine this brief slideshow just a bit for optimum graphics, but the power of the demonstration should still be clear. I have thought about adding a fourth slide to the show which would remind the students (quickly) of the difference between vague details and specific, visual details by providing a few key examples (examples related to the current topic—their “happiest place on earth.”) However, my primary concern at this juncture is still their ability to follow the outline and stay organized, and I am concerned that a fourth slide about details might compromise their focus on organization. (Better perhaps just to give them verbal/oral reminders and cues to add “great details.”) What do you think?

Note to Researches: On most Fridays for the remainder of the semester, the students will be composing their paragraphs. So, you may be able to make good use of this time by typing your notes from the week. Just bring a diskette and sit next to one or both of your students.