Lesson Plan
Writing a Personal Letter Using the Short Story "Eleven" by ECSDM
Subject
English Language Arts (2005), English Language Arts (NYS P-12 Common Core)
Grade Levels
Intermediate, 7th Grade
Description
This is a culminating writing lesson in which students write a personal letter from the point of view of the main character in the short story Eleven.
Resource/Materials
eleven sandra cisneros.doc
letterprompt.pdf
letterscore.pdf
lettertemplate.pdf
stumodellettereleven.pdf
Duration
Two 45-minute class periods
Learning Objectives
Adopt an alignment with a character by assuming Rachel’s persona
As Rachel, compose a letter to another character in the text to communicate thoughts and feelings about the incident with the red sweater.
Materials
SMART Board (laptop and projector)
Letter prompt
Letter template
Sample letter
Rubric
Peer review sheet
content checklist sheet
Eleven
Step by Step Procedure
Day One:
Do now:
- Students will list all the parts of a friendly letter.
- Students will discuss the proper format for a friendly letter.
- Show template of friendly letter.
- Students will copy template into their notebook.
- Students will read directions for writing assignment silently as the teacher reads them aloud. The teacher will clarify any questions.
- Students will read student example silently as the teacher reads aloud.
- Students will cite examples of why it is an effective friendly letter.
- On the SMART Board, individual students will:
- Underline the date, greeting and closing in green.
- Underline why the author is writing in blue.
- Underline the similes and metaphors taken directly from the text in red.
- Underline the original similes and metaphors in black.
- Circle the final remark.
- Students will write a rough draft. Students will complete the rough draft for homework.
Day Two
- Students will work with a partner and complete the sharing sheet editing each other’s work.
- Students will analyze the effectiveness of their own writing by completing the content checklist.
- Students will revise and rewrite a final draft of their letter. Students will complete the final draft for homework.
