Sources: Research Citation Basics

Today we'll practice research citation basics. Brainstorm aloud first. Drafts get better when they're shared. Ask, 'What is the strongest sentence here? Why?' Reading drafts aloud is the single fastest way to improve. Edit on paper if you can.

• pencil
• paper

Free-write for ninety seconds about anything. Don't lift the pen. We'll mine it for ideas.

1. 1

   Write a topic sentence for a paragraph about a hobby.

   Parent tip: Topic sentence makes a claim, not just a description.
2. 2

   Identify the weakest verb in this sentence: 'The dog went into the yard.'

   Parent tip: Strong verbs do the lifting.

1. 1

   Compose a haiku (5-7-5) about something in your kitchen.
2. 2

   Write a counter-argument to: 'Phones in school improve learning.'
3. 3

   Describe a sound, smell, and texture in one paragraph.
4. 4

   Define one figurative device (metaphor, simile, personification) and write an example.
5. 5

   Write a paragraph (4-6 sentences) with a clear topic sentence about a place you'd like to visit.
6. 6

   Revise this for stronger verbs: 'She put the book on the table and got up.'
7. 7

   Rewrite this sentence three different ways: 'The storm was loud.'
8. 8

   Write a one-paragraph narrative that includes one piece of dialogue.
9. 9

   Write a short letter to your future self.
10. 10

    Write a 'show, don't tell' sentence about being nervous.

What is one sentence you wrote today that you're proud of? Why?