Section outline

  • Objective:

    Students will produce clear and coherent writing that is appropriate to the task, purpose, and audience.

    Task:

    Write a formal letter to a local community leader about an issue you care about.

    Outcome:

    A formal letter with appropriate tone and structure, addressing a community issue.

    Measurable Objective:

    Students will:

    1. Organize their letter clearly, with a defined purpose and a logical structure.
    2. Use formal language that is appropriate for the intended audience (a local community leader).
    3. Present a clear and compelling argument or request related to an issue that matters to them.
    Materials List:
    1. Paper or Computer for drafting and final letter.
    2. Pen or Pencil for writing the draft (if handwritten).
    3. Letter Format Guide (for structuring your letter).
    4. Examples of Formal Letters (to reference tone and format).
    5. Community Issue Worksheet (for brainstorming the issue you care about).
    6. Rubric for Evaluation (provided below).
    7. Peer Review Worksheet (optional for Day 8).

    Evaluation Rubric

    Criteria

    4 (Excellent)

    3 (Good)

    2 (Needs Improvement)

    1 (Unsatisfactory)

    Organization

    Well-organized letter with clear introduction, body, and conclusion.

    Clear organization, but transitions may need slight improvement.

    Letter lacks clear structure or organization.

    Letter is disorganized or missing key components.

    Tone and Language

    Formal and respectful tone throughout; language is clear and appropriate.

    Tone is mostly formal, but may occasionally use informal language.

    Tone is inconsistent or too informal for a formal letter.

    Tone is not formal or respectful.

    Purpose and Clarity

    Purpose of the letter is clearly stated and thoroughly explained.

    Purpose is clear but could be developed further.

    Purpose is unclear or underdeveloped.

    No clear purpose stated.

    Evidence and Support

    Provides strong evidence or examples that support the argument.

    Provides some evidence, but may lack depth or detail.

    Little or no evidence provided to support the argument.

    No evidence or examples provided.

    Grammar and Mechanics

    Virtually no errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling.

    Few minor errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling.

    Several grammar, punctuation, or spelling errors.

    Numerous errors that make the letter difficult to understand.

    By completing this unit, students will strengthen their formal writing skills, develop their ability to make clear arguments, and practice addressing important issues within their community.