7th grade ELO 3 Thematic Essay and Parent Letter

The following text is taken from ELO 3 Thematic Essay and Parent letter. The full document can be found by logging into Jupiter grades. Then, find the assignment labeled ELO 3 Thematic essay and ELO 3 Parent Letter. The documents are attached there.

Parent Letter for 7th grade:

During November, seventh grade students will continue to explore the theme of relationships and will read House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros.  Students will write a thematic essay using relevant supporting evidence from House on Mango Street. Teachers gave each student the ELO packet that breaks down the steps and due dates. Please take the time to read through the packet carefully in order to familiarize yourself with what your child is learning, the process involved and the due dates that must be respected. Afterwards, kindly review the strategies below that you can use to help your child improve academically. 

STRATEGIESWays You Can Help Your Child This Month:1) Look at the calendar in the packet, copy the due dates on a calendar, and post them in your home.2) Look at the essential questions listed on the top of the first page in the packet, and discuss them with your child.  Periodically (throughout the month) revisit these questions and ask your child to explain how the class text is relevant to the questions.3) Students will be writing a thematic essay in class and at home.   While the students will learn what an essay is in class and will get assistance from their teacher, the following websites offer information related to writing essays.  Visit the websites and share the information with your child.    http://www2.actden.com/writ_den/tips/essay/http://www.mykidsway.com/essays/index.htmlhttp://chs.mesa.k12.co.us/departments/language%20arts/thomas/9a_thematic_essay_format.html
4) Your child will be learning that most pieces of literature can offer valuable lessons.  Practice helping   your child identify lessons that he/she can learn based on his/her daily experiences.  This exercise both reinforces what is being taught in the classroom as well as strengthens his/her ability to apply these skills. 
5) Ensure that your child is reading for at least twenty minutes each day.  Remember that the next book project is due December 10^th. 
Your support is essential for your child’s success at the Frederick Douglass Academy.  Please don’t hesitate to contact your child's English teacher if you have any questions. 

ELO 3 Task:

Theme: This is the lesson the character or reader can learn from the book.
Essential Question:  
1. How does your community define you as a person?
2. What are your responsibilities as a member of your neighborhood community?

Task:  In The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros explores many themes through the experiences of the main character, Esperanza. Complete the following thematic essay using details from the text that answer an essential question above.

• You must follow all steps in the packet as indicated on the Process Check Sheet (see other side).

• Your essay must adhere to the following structure:

Introductory paragraph- introduce the essay by describing the chosen theme, and summarizing details from the text that exemplify that theme or lesson.
Body Paragraphs 1, 2, and 3- Support your thesis statement with textual evidence from your two-column notes.
Conclusion paragraph- Conclude your essay by explaining what the author (Sandra Cisneros) hoped the reader would gain from learning your chosen lesson or theme. Afterwards, explain if she is successful or unsuccessful in teaching this lesson to her reader and how the lesson or theme relates to an essential question above.

• Your final draft must be revised and edited for correct grammar and spelling.