PROFESSIONAL LEARNING TEAM REPORT

2011-2012

PLT Title

Research & Writing in 8th Grade Humanities

Blurb for PLT Conference Brochure

In an attempt to integrate more consistent research & writing skills in the 8th grade social studies curriculum, this PLT focuses on skills that are essential and in line with the reading & writing standards for literacy. The goal is to create integrated research & writing assignments that use common language, common skills, and shared resources between Social Studies & English Language Arts.

Contact Information (Write * next to facilitator’s name.)

Name / School / Grade Level or Subject
Adam Zilcoski* / Chenery M.S. / 8th Social Studies
Sue Zmijewski / Chenery M.S. / 8th Social Studies
Katie Metter / Chenery M.S. / 8th Social Studies
Michelle Conors / Chenery M.S. / 8th ELA
Marlie Gonclaves / Chenery M.S. / 8th ELA
Emily Richmond / Chenery M.S. / 8th ELA

Guiding Theme

  • Differentiated Instruction/RTI
  • Integrated, Real-Life Experiences
  • Acquisition of 21st Century Skills
  • Deepening Teacher Content Knowledge
  • Improving School Climate/Culture
  • Teaching the “Whole Student”
  • Other (explain) ______

Inquiry Question

How do we develop common writing and research assignments in the 8th grade in order to effectively meet the reading and writing standards for literacy in history?

Process

The six members of this PLT first discussed and analyzed the skills required for a student to master by the end of 8th grade in both English & Social Studies. We used the Reading & Writing Standards for Literacy as our guide.
We then identified four forms of research & writing assessments that would be effective in meeting the standards. Each of the four assessments meets a different set of standards.
The group then began developing the assessments, which will be assigned in Social Studies class and added to the 8th grade Humanities Portfolio at year’s end, and adjusted them to meet specific standards.
The group used language, graphic organizers, and rubrics that students are familiar with to keep consistent language.

Findings

Because we plan to implement these new assessments next year, we have not yet tested them. We plan to further develop these assessments and pilot them next year in lieu of National History Day.
We believe that these assessments will better serve our student’s needs, be more consistent with the standards in place, demonstrate student growth more clearly, and integrate well with ELA.

Recommendations / Next Steps

We intend on implementing one of the four new assessments in each quarter of the 2012-2013 school year.