• Course Description

    Writing is a meaning-making process that requires the synthesis of skills to effectively communicate. K-5 students are immersed in daily opportunities to explore, inquire, practice and apply writing strategies and skills in a variety of genres. Cultivating writers who write with the reader in mind is guided by the connection between reading and writing process to convey authentic messages. Self-selected writing topics guided by positive, specific feedback ignite the joy and passion to grow as lifelong communicators.

    Grade Level(s): Second Grade

    Related Priority Standards (State &/or National):  K-5 Missouri Learning Standards & ELA Priority Standards

    Essential Questions

    • How does a writer know his/her writing is clear?
    • What makes an interesting narrative?
    • How do authors begin & end their stories?
    • How do authors convey sequence?
    • How do writers organize their ideas to aid comprehension?
    • Who is the audience and why does it matter?
    • How does an author's choice of voice, tone and mood affect the audience's perception/understanding?
    • Why does one write an argumentative piece?
    • Why is my argumentative writing worth reading?
    • How do my experiences impact my opinions?
    • Where do ideas for writing come from?
    • How do writers organize their ideas?
    • What makes an effective argument?
    • How does a writer know his/her writing is clear?
    • Why does one write an informational/explanatory text?
    • When does one write an informational/explanatory text?
    • How do writers choose relevant facts?
    • What determines accurate information?
    • How does one know a source is credible?
    • How does one know an author is credible?
    • How does an author's choice of voice and register affect the audience's perception/understanding?

    Enduring Understandings/Big Ideas

    • Writing clearly is essential to effective communication.
    • Details enhance a narrative.
    • Appropriate transitions enhance continuity.
    • Narratives have a variety of organizational structures.
    • Narratives are written in a variety of forms.
    • Audience and purpose influence a writer's choice of organizational pattern, language, and literary techniques.
    • Expressing an opinion is a right that is to be valued and respected.
    • As our experiences change, so can our opinions.
    • Researched evidence supports a strong opinion.
    • Appropriate transitions enhance the continuity of writing.
    • Informational text is characterized by a formal style.
    • Well-chosen facts are specific to the topic, relevant to the audience and logically presented.

    Course-Level Scope & Sequence (Units &/or Skills)

    • Unit 1: Lessons from the Masters
    • Unit 2: Nonfiction Writing Projects
    • Unit 3: Writing About Reading
    • Unit 4: Poetry: Big Thoughts in Small Packages

    * The above adjustments to scope and sequence are pending Board approval on August 22, 2022.

    Course Resources & Materials

    Date Last Revised/Approved: 2013