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  • December 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for December 2023. Set the expectation that students will write in complete, grammatically correct sentences, and use GrammarAid to check their work automatically. Each prompt includes optional background information that may help students develop and support their responses.

    Consider these strategies to extend the High 5 experience:

    Individual Review: Have students evaluate and revise their work using the rubric criteria or the grammar check function.
    Peer Feedback: Have students share their sentences with others to get star ratings evaluating how well they meet the rubric criteria.
    Spotlights: Display student work that represents well-crafted sentences and insightful thinking as a way to spark discussion.
    Extension Activities: Use student responses as the basis for a paragraph or Essay exploring the topic in more depth.

    • December 11: Adopt a Lot-a Axolotls

      December 11: Adopt a Lot-a Axolotls

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about the importance of axolotls. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • December 11: Fewer Royalties, Harsher Realities

      December 11: Fewer Royalties, Harsher Realities

      This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about whether Spotify should pay less-popular artists more. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • December 4: To Seek, or Not to Seek

      December 4: To Seek, or Not to Seek

      This week's assignment asks students to write a claim that either supports or opposes commercial treasure hunting. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • December 4: Word on the Street: Authentic

      December 4: Word on the Street: Authentic

      This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation of a word they would use to represent their year. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
  • November 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for November, 2023. Set the expectation that students will write in complete, grammatically correct sentences, and use GrammarAid to check their work automatically. Each prompt includes optional background information that may help students develop and support their responses.

    Consider these strategies to extend the High 5 experience:

    • Individual Review: Have students evaluate and revise their work using the rubric criteria or the grammar check function.
    • Peer Feedback: Have students share their sentences with others to get star ratings evaluating how well they meet the rubric criteria.
    • Spotlights: Display student work that represents well-crafted sentences and insightful thinking as a way to spark discussion.
    • Extension Activities: Use student responses as the basis for a paragraph or Essay exploring the topic in more depth.
    • November 20: Write with that Gratitude Attitude

      November 20: Write with that Gratitude Attitude

      This week's assignment asks students to write a short thank-you note to a mentor. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Follow the Prompt, Stay on Topic
      STANDARDS:W.7.4
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Follow the Prompt
      • Stay on Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.4
    • November 20: Commemorate Native American Heritage

      November 20: Commemorate Native American Heritage

      This week's assignment asks students to choose one way to celebrate Native American Heritage Month and write an explanation of their choice. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • November 13: US Says Goodbye to DC Pandas

      November 13: US Says Goodbye to DC Pandas

      This week's assignment asks students to write a brief summary about the pandas leaving the Smithsonian National Zoo.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • November 13: The History of Native American Heritage Month

      November 13: The History of Native American Heritage Month

      This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation of the importance of indigenous cultures. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.8
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.8
    • November 6: Honoring the First Native American Prima Ballerina

      November 6: Honoring the First Native American Prima Ballerina

      This week's assignment asks students to write an introduction to a personal essay about something worth fighting for.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • November 6: Diwali: Festival of Lights

      November 6: Diwali: Festival of Lights

      This week's assignment asks students to write a comparison that relates elements of Diwali to other holidays or celebrations.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
  • October 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for October, 2023. Set the expectation that students will write in complete, grammatically correct sentences, and use GrammarAid to check their work automatically. Each prompt includes optional background information that may help students develop and support their responses.

    Consider these strategies to extend the High 5 experience:

    • Individual Review: Have students evaluate and revise their work using the rubric criteria or the grammar check function.
    • Peer Feedback: Have students share their sentences with others to get star ratings evaluating how well they meet the rubric criteria.
    • Spotlights: Display student work that represents well-crafted sentences and insightful thinking as a way to spark discussion.
    • Extension Activities: Use student responses as the basis for a paragraph or Essay exploring the topic in more depth.
    • October 30: When School Bell Rings, Phones Do Not

      October 30: When School Bell Rings, Phones Do Not

      This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about whether or not they believe phones should be banned in schools.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • October 30: The Thrills and Chills of Terror

      October 30: The Thrills and Chills of Terror

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary of a key idea. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • October 23: A Spooky Season Filled with Tricks and Treats!

      October 23: A Spooky Season Filled with Tricks and Treats!

      This week's assignment asks students to write a description about their favorite part of spooky season. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • October 23: Blazing "Ring of Fire" Eclipse

      October 23: Blazing "Ring of Fire" Eclipse

      This week's assignment asks students to summarize an eclipse event. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • October 16: Pokémon, van Gogh!

      October 16: Pokémon, van Gogh!

      This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about a pop culture mashup of their own choosing. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • October 16: Gymnast Simone Biles Bounces Back Big Time

      October 16: Gymnast Simone Biles Bounces Back Big Time

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary of Simone Biles’s new approach to performing after she took a mental health break from competitive gymnastics. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • October 9: Indigenous People's Day Explained

      October 9: Indigenous People's Day Explained

      This week's assignment asks students to write a suggestion for a way their school or community could recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • October 9: Signature Hispanic Dishes

      October 9: Signature Hispanic Dishes

      This week's assignment asks students to write and support an opinion of a food they want to try. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Elaborate (Arg), Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Elaborate (Arg)
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • October 2: Diversity in Medicine

      October 2: Diversity in Medicine

      This week's assignment asks students to create and support a topic statement about the importance of diversity in medicine. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      Note: The discussion about the importance of diversity in medicine starts around 3:15. 

      SKILLS (2):Elaborate (Arg), Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Elaborate (Arg)
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • October 2: José Hernández's Journey to the Stars

      October 2: José Hernández's Journey to the Stars

      This week's assignment asks students to write the steps they can follow to achieve a dream or goal they have based on astronaut José Hernández’s advice. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
  • September 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for September, 2023.

    • September 25: Latino Diversity

      September 25: Latino Diversity

      This week's assignment asks students to watch a video about Latino/a diversity and then write a brief summary identifying its main idea.  Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • September 25: Jewish High Holidays

      September 25: Jewish High Holidays

      This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation of an aspect of Jewish holiday celebrations that interests them. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • September 18: Hispanic Heritage Month

      September 18: Hispanic Heritage Month

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary of an article. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • September 18: Coco Gauff Wins a Grand Slam Title

      September 18: Coco Gauff Wins a Grand Slam Title

      This week's assignment asks students to analyze an article about Coco Gauff's win and then make an inference about why a person might succeed even when not supported. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Make Inferences (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.1
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Make Inferences (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.1
    • September 11: Over the Moon About India's Moon Rover

      September 11: Over the Moon About India's Moon Rover

      This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about why India’s recent moon mission is so significant. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.8
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.8
    • September 11: More Indigenous Boarding Schools Uncovered

      September 11: More Indigenous Boarding Schools Uncovered

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary of a news video about Indigenous boarding schools in the U.S. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • September 5: Barbie Wins Big at the Box Office

      September 5: Barbie Wins Big at the Box Office

      This week's assignment asks students to read a brief article and then write a claim about why Barbie has become the highest-grossing movie of 2023. 

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • September 5: The History Behind Labor Day

      September 5: The History Behind Labor Day

      This week's assignment asks students to read a brief article and then write a topic sentence about Labor Day and support it with information from the article. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (3):Develop a Topic, Elaborate (Info), Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.2.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Develop a Topic
        • Elaborate (Info)
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.2.b
  • Summer 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the summer of 2023.

    • August 28: Deadly Wildfires in Maui

      August 28: Deadly Wildfires in Maui

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about the recent devastating wildfires in Maui, Hawaii. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • August 28: A Shortened School Week Grows in Popularity

      August 28: A Shortened School Week Grows in Popularity

      This week's assignment asks students to use evidence to support the pros and cons of a four-day school week. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Elaborate (Arg), Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Elaborate (Arg)
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • August 14: Does It Bear a Closer Look?

      August 14: Does It Bear a Closer Look?

      This week's assignment asks students to write a claim that supports or opposes the idea that a sun bear standing on two legs in a Chinese zoo is really a person in a suit. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • August 14: US Women’s Soccer Team Expresses Joy Despite Defeat

      August 14: US Women’s Soccer Team Expresses Joy Despite Defeat

      This week's assignment asks students to state a claim about what makes a good team. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • July 31: TikTok Makes Author's Book Go Viral

      July 31: TikTok Makes Author's Book Go Viral

      This week's assignment asks students to write a short book review for a book of their choice. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • July 31: Earth Scorches in Hottest Months on Record

      July 31: Earth Scorches in Hottest Months on Record

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about rising global temperature. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • July 17: Tourists Get Into Trouble

      July 17: Tourists Get Into Trouble

      This week's assignment asks students to write a description about what tourists should do to have a better impact on their surroundings. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • July 17: Aliens on Earth?

      July 17: Aliens on Earth?

      This week's assignment asks students to write a plot outline for a science fiction story based on a recent scientific discovery. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (3):Provide a Strong Beginning, Establish a Situation, Introduce the Story
      STANDARDS:W.7.3.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Provide a Strong Beginning
      • Establish a Situation
        • Introduce the Story
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.3.a
    • July 3: Titan Submersible Disaster

      July 3: Titan Submersible Disaster

      This week's assignment asks students to write opinions about the tragic fate of the OceanGate Titan submersible. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • July 3: Small Pool of Lifeguard Candidates

      July 3: Small Pool of Lifeguard Candidates

      This week's assignment asks students to recommend a solution for the nationwide lifeguard shortage. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.8
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.8
    • June 19: Tony Winners Break Through Barriers

      June 19: Tony Winners Break Through Barriers

      This week's assignment asks students to write a statement about the importance of self-expression. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • June 19: Amanda Gorman's Poem Banned for Elementary Students

      June 19: Amanda Gorman's Poem Banned for Elementary Students

      This week's assignment asks students to read about a recent book ban and then state their own opinion about it. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • June 5: A Teacher's 60-Plus Year Career Continues

      June 5: A Teacher's 60-Plus Year Career Continues

      This week's assignment asks students to write a profile about a 91-year-old teacher who is still going strong. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • June 5: Last Place Wins!

      June 5: Last Place Wins!

      This week's assignment asks students to write an analysis about what is achieved through perserverance. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (2):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
      • Determine/Explain Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
      • RI.7.3
  • May 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of May 2023. Set the expectation that students will write in complete, grammatically correct sentences, and use GrammarAid to check their work automatically. Each prompt includes optional background information that may help students develop and support their responses.

    • May 29: Students Raise AAPI Awareness with Card Game

      May 29: Students Raise AAPI Awareness with Card Game

      This week's assignment asks students to summarize a news segment about a card game created by university students. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • May 29: NYC Schools Embrace ChatGPT

      May 29: NYC Schools Embrace ChatGPT

      This week's assignment asks students to consider whether technology like ChatGPT should be banned or utilized in schools. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • May 22: Eighth Graders Create AAPI Activist Group

      May 22: Eighth Graders Create AAPI Activist Group

      This week's assignment asks students to write a statement about a cause they consider important. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • May 22: 15-Year-Old Valedictorian Graduates

      May 22: 15-Year-Old Valedictorian Graduates

      This week's assignment asks students to consider what it might be like to graduate early and write an opinion for or against it. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • May 15: Climate Change Protests Heating Up

      May 15: Climate Change Protests Heating Up

      This week's assignment asks students to write an analysis about recent, youth-led climate change demonstrations. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
      • Determine/Explain Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
      • RI.7.3
    • May 15: Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month

      May 15: Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month

      This week's assignment asks students to write a statement about their communities to honor its Asian American and Pacific Islander residents. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • May 8: A Seventh Grader Takes the Wheel

      May 8: A Seventh Grader Takes the Wheel

      This week's assignment asks students to make inferences to compose a tribute to a 7th-grade hero. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Make Inferences (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.1
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Make Inferences (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.1
    • May 8: AI Restores Lost Voices

      May 8: AI Restores Lost Voices

      This week's assignment asks students to explain benefits and limitations of AI voice technology. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • May 1: Goats' Green Grass Buffet

      May 1: Goats' Green Grass Buffet

      This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about a goat-grazing program in San Francisco that helps to keep environments safe from wildfires. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • May 1: Teens Lead the Way

      May 1: Teens Lead the Way

      This week's assignment asks students to make inferences about a video that reports on a teen-led community program in Seattle. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Make Inferences (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.1
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Make Inferences (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.1
  • April 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of April 2023.

    • April 24: Students Perform "In the Heights"

      April 24: Students Perform "In the Heights"

      This week’s assignment asks students to synthesize information about a school production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights to make personal connections. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • April 24: Robotic Dog Learns to Paint

      April 24: Robotic Dog Learns to Paint

      This week's assignment asks students to state an opinion about robots as artists. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • April 17: Fresh New Direction for Star Wars

      April 17: Fresh New Direction for Star Wars

      This week's assignment asks students to reflect on the recent announcement that Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy will be the first woman and person of color to direct a new Star Wars film. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Make Inferences (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.1
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Make Inferences (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.1
    • April 17: Two Teens Crack an Age-Old Math Problem

      April 17: Two Teens Crack an Age-Old Math Problem

      This week's assignment asks students to make inferences about teens' capabilities, based on two teens' use of trigonometry to solve the Pythagorean theorem. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (2):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Make Inferences (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.1
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Make Inferences (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.1
    • April 10: Meet NYC's Poet Laureate

      April 10: Meet NYC's Poet Laureate

      This week's assignment asks students to watch a video about NYC’s Youth Poet Laureate Stephanie Pacheco and then write a few sentences of their own about a place they find sacred. Alternatively, you could ask them to write a Poem on this topic. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.  

      SKILLS (3):Development & Elaboration, Elaborate (Narr), Develop a Narrative
      STANDARDS:W.7.3.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Develop a Narrative
        • Development & Elaboration
        • Elaborate (Narr)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.3.b
    • April 10: Baseball Adds New Rules

      April 10: Baseball Adds New Rules

      This week's assignment asks students to write opinions about the possible effects of new rules for professional baseball. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • April 3: Girls' Wrestling Is Riding a Nationwide Wave

      April 3: Girls' Wrestling Is Riding a Nationwide Wave

      This week's assignment asks students to write an analysis of the rise in popularity in girls’ wrestling. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (2):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
      • Determine/Explain Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
      • RI.7.3
    • April 3: The Museum of Failure

      April 3: The Museum of Failure

      This week's assignment asks students to view a video introducing a new museum that celebrates well-known product failures. Then, students are asked to write a reflection about what one can learn from failure. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

       

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
  • March 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of March 2023.

    • March 27: Frenchies for the Win!

      March 27: Frenchies for the Win!

      This week's assignment asks students to read an article about the new most popular dog breed and then summarize the reasons why. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • March 27: The Massive Potential of Women's College Basketball

      March 27: The Massive Potential of Women's College Basketball

      This week's assignment asks students to listen to a report about the popularity of women's college basketball (as well as its relative lack of media coverage and resources) and identify the main idea. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or any time you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • March 20: Women Scientists Look to the Future

      March 20: Women Scientists Look to the Future

      This week's assignment asks students to think over and describe their career goals and the steps they will take to achieve them. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • March 20: Drama at the Oscars

      March 20: Drama at the Oscars

      This week's assignment asks students to describe and make connections to one inspiring moment from a recent Oscar awards ceremony.  Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • March 13: International Women's Day

      March 13: International Women's Day

      This week's assignment asks students to summarize the main idea behind a video produced for International Women’s Day. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • March 13: Is TikTok a Ticking Bomb?

      March 13: Is TikTok a Ticking Bomb?

      This week's assignment asks students to take a position on a potential U.S. ban of TikTok. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • March 6: Change for Trailblazing Women

      March 6: Change for Trailblazing Women

      This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection about the significance of new U.S. coins that feature groundbreaking American women. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • March 6: Killer Whales are "Mommy's Boys"

      March 6: Killer Whales are "Mommy's Boys"

      This week's assignment asks students to summarize information about the difficulties killer whale moms face when raising sons as opposed to daughters. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
  • February 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of February 2023.

    • February 27: Reflections on Black History

      February 27: Reflections on Black History

      This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection of Black History Month. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • February 27: One-Eared Dog Paints in Style of Van Gogh

      February 27: One-Eared Dog Paints in Style of Van Gogh

      This week's assignment asks students to analyze the appealing details of the story of a rescue dog. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.8
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.8
    • February 22: Cowboys and Horses in Los Angeles

      February 22: Cowboys and Horses in Los Angeles

      This week's assignment asks students to summarize what they learn about a unique community leader after watching a brief interview. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • February 22: Artist Honors Haitian Model and Disability Rights Activist

      February 22: Artist Honors Haitian Model and Disability Rights Activist

      This week's assignment asks students to choose someone to commemorate in a Google Doodle—or other art form—and write a description of this person. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • February 13: Young Fossil Hunter Makes Huge Discovery

      February 13: Young Fossil Hunter Makes Huge Discovery

      This week's assignment asks students to describe the most surprising aspects of a girl's amazing discovery. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
      • Determine/Explain Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
      • RI.7.3
    • February 13: New Jersey Plans Black Heritage Trail

      February 13: New Jersey Plans Black Heritage Trail

      This week's assignment asks students to read the linked article and reflect on the way(s) their community does, or could, commemorate the contributions of Black people. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • February 6: Deep Sea Diver Lost at Sea

      February 6: Deep Sea Diver Lost at Sea

      This week's assignment asks students to write a description of a dramatic rescue at sea. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • February 6: Oldest Living Person Passes Away

      February 6: Oldest Living Person Passes Away

      This week's assignment asks students to consider the changes that have occurred during an extraordinarily long life. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
  • January 2023: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of January 2023.

    • January 9: Teens Deliberately Ditch Smartphones

      January 9: Teens Deliberately Ditch Smartphones

      This week's assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety ofThis week’s assignment asks students to consider what life might be like if they ditched their smartphones. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the this week’s assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety of countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • January 9: Teens Battle Blizzard to Help Rescue Dogs

      January 9: Teens Battle Blizzard to Help Rescue Dogs

      This week’s assignment asks students to review the actions of two teen do-gooders and then explain what happened. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • January 17: Football Player Damar Hamlin's Serious Injury

      January 17: Football Player Damar Hamlin's Serious Injury

      This week's assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety ofThis week’s assignment asks students to express opinions about how a recent injury to an NFL player affects their views of football. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the this week’s assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety of countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • January 17: Storming the Presidential Palace in Brazil

      January 17: Storming the Presidential Palace in Brazil

      This week’s assignment asks students to compare the recent violent attack on the Brazilian Congress with the attack on January 6, 2020, on the U.S. Capitol. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.rite.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • January 23: Student Builds App to Sniff Out AI Bots

      January 23: Student Builds App to Sniff Out AI Bots

      ofThis week’s assignment asks students to consider how new bots like ChatGPT might change their schoolwork. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.k Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • January 23: Teens Change a Life with a 3D Hand

      January 23: Teens Change a Life with a 3D Hand

      This week's assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety ofThis week’s assignment asks students to read an article about how three high school students designed a prosthetic hand to help a fellow student and then think about how they might use the same technology to help someone they know. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
      countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the this week’s assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety of countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • January 30: Environmental Activist Greta Thunberg Fights Big Coal

      January 30: Environmental Activist Greta Thunberg Fights Big Coal

      This week's assignment has students use the 5W’s and H to summarize what happened at a recent protest that environmental activitist Greta Thunberg joined. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • January 30: Yale Welcomes Young Scientist after Racial Profiling Incident

      January 30: Yale Welcomes Young Scientist after Racial Profiling Incident

      This week's assignment asks students to summarize what happened after a neighbor called in a complaint on Bobbi Wilson, a nine-year-old helping to kill spotted lanternflies in her yard. Use this High 5 activity during the first five minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
  • December 2022: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of December 2022.

    • December 5: Covid Protests Escalate in China

      December 5: Covid Protests Escalate in China

      This week's assignment asks students to summarize information about the widening Chinese protests over the government’s strict Covid policies. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • December 5: Penguins Threatened by Climate Change

      December 5: Penguins Threatened by Climate Change

      This week's assignment asks students to read an article and demonstrate their understanding of how climate change is affecting the emperor penguin population. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.3
    • December 12: Is Soccer the Future?

      December 12: Is Soccer the Future?

      This week's assignment asks students to explore the possibility of soccer becoming the USA's most popular sport. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • December 12: Refugees Compete in the World Cup

      December 12: Refugees Compete in the World Cup

      This week's assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety ofThis week’s assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety of countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the this week’s assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety of countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Make Connections (IR)
      • Synthesize (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.9
    • December 19: Choose the Next Ambassador for Literature

      December 19: Choose the Next Ambassador for Literature

      This week's assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety ofThis week’s assignment asks students to read an article about the author Jason Reynolds, who is ending his term as the national ambassador for young people’s literature. They are then asked to nominate a new ambassador to take his place and give a reason for their choice.countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the this week’s assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety of countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • December 19: WNBA Star Released from Russian Prison

      December 19: WNBA Star Released from Russian Prison

      This week's assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety ofThis week’s assignment has students analyze Brittney Griner’s Russian experience to form an opinion of American athletes in Russia. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the this week’s assignment asks students to consider how refugees from a variety of countries earned their spot in the 2022 World Cup. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
  • November 2022: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of November 2022.

    • November 7: Votes for Teens on the Line

      November 7: Votes for Teens on the Line

      This week's assignment asks students to consider the idea of lowering the right to vote in local elections. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • November 14: Thanksgiving History: Did You Know?

      November 14: Thanksgiving History: Did You Know?

      This week's assignment asks students to view a video about some surprising Thanksgiving facts and then write a brief summary. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
      • Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
    • November 28: Climate Activists Sentenced after Vandalism Protest

      November 28: Climate Activists Sentenced after Vandalism Protest

      This week's assignment asks students to offer an opinion about the sentencing of climate change activists for their acts of vandalism. Use this prompt at the beginning of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
  • October 2022: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of October 2022.

    • October 3: Future Asteroid Impact? Not Today!

      October 3: Future Asteroid Impact? Not Today!

      This week's assignment asks students to consider the success of NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) in targeting a large asteroid. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (1):Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.8
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.8
    • October 3: Banned Books in the News

      October 3: Banned Books in the News

      This week’s assignment asks students to consider the recent challenges to books in schools and libraries. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.3
    • October 10: Be the Judge - Should Aaron Judge Hold the World Record?

      October 10: Be the Judge - Should Aaron Judge Hold the World Record?

      This week’s assignment asks students to consider who should take the title of baseball's home-run champion. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
    • October 10: Celebrate Indigenous People's Day

      October 10: Celebrate Indigenous People's Day

      This week’s assignment asks students to write a brief summary of an article about Indigenous People's Day. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.3
    • October 17: Defiant Protests in Iran Led by Gen-Z

      October 17: Defiant Protests in Iran Led by Gen-Z

      This week's assignment has students examine the current protests in Iran, largely led by Gen Z women. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
      • Determine/Explain Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
      • RI.7.3
    • October 25: Emojis Under Fire

      October 25: Emojis Under Fire

      This week's assignment asks students to weigh in on the controversy about emojis. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic
      STANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
      • Determine/Explain Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.2
      • RI.7.3
    • October 31: Teen Trick-or-Treating

      October 31: Teen Trick-or-Treating

      This week's assignment asks students to express their views about teenagers trick-or-treating. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (1):Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
  • September 2022: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of September 2022.

    • September 12: Good Sportsmanship

      September 12: Good Sportsmanship

      This week's assignment asks students to think about a heartwarming act of good sportsmanship. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      SKILLS (1):Demonstrate Understanding
      STANDARDS:W.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Demonstrate Understanding
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.9
    • September 19: Back-to-School Inflation

      September 19: Back-to-School Inflation

      This week's assignment taps into students’ awareness of the burden of price inflation and how everyday people are adjusting. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a quick write.

      SKILLS (2):Follow the Prompt, Stay on Topic
      STANDARDS:W.7.4
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Follow the Prompt
      • Stay on Topic
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.4
    • September 26: Queen Elizabeth Dies: The End of an Era

      September 26: Queen Elizabeth Dies: The End of an Era

      This week’s assignment asks students to examine what actions made Queen Elizabeth memorable in times of constant and dramatic change. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Make Inferences (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.1
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Make Inferences (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.1
  • Summer 2022: High 5 Summer Collection


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the Summer of 2022.

    • June 6: Imagination Vacation

      June 6: Imagination Vacation

      This week's assignment asks students to identify an interesting place to visit and explain what is interesting about it. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Elaborate (Info), Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.2.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Elaborate (Info)
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.2.b
    • June 20: Year-Round School

      June 20: Year-Round School

      This week's assignment asks students to state an opinion about whether their school should switch to a year-round schedule. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a quick write.

      SKILLS (3):Elaborate (Info), State an Opinion or Point of View, Support with Reasons & Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.2.b
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Elaborate (Info)
      • State an Opinion or Point of View
      • Support with Reasons & Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.2.b
    • July 4: Independence Day

      July 4: Independence Day

      This week's assignment asks students to reflect on what the Fourth of July holiday means to them. Use this HIgh 5 Quick Write during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a quick write. 

      SKILLS (1):Establish a Claim
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Establish a Claim
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • July 18: Curfew Laws

      July 18: Curfew Laws

      This week's assignment asks students to reflect on what the Fourth of July holiday means to them. Use this HIgh 5 Quick Write during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a quick write. 

      SKILLS (2):Style, State an Opinion or Point of View
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Style
      • State an Opinion or Point of View
    • August 1: Expert Advice

      August 1: Expert Advice

      This week's assignment asks students to write instructions for an activity they understand well. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a quick write.

      SKILLS (2):Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize Sequentially
      STANDARDS:W.7.5, W.7.2.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
      • Organize Sequentially
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.5
      • W.7.2.a
    • August 15: Extreme Heat

      August 15: Extreme Heat

      This week's assignment asks students to determine practical ways to protect themselves against the effects of unsafe heat exposure. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a quick write. 

      SKILLS (1):Apply Readings
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Apply Readings
    • August 25: Emotional Support

      August 25: Emotional Support

      This week's assignment asks students to write about how they give themselves emotional support. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a quick write. 

      SKILLS (1):Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      STANDARDS:RI.7.3
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
      Standards in this Assignment
      • RI.7.3
  • May 2022: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of May, 2022.

    • May 2: School Dances

      May 2: School Dances

      This week's assignment asks students to take and support a position on the tradition of formal school dances. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a quick write. 

      SKILLS (4):Cite Evidence from Text (LR), Demonstrate Comprehension (LR), Demonstrate Understanding, Cite Text Evidence
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b, W.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (LR)
      • Demonstrate Comprehension (LR)
      • Demonstrate Understanding
      • Cite Text Evidence
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
      • W.7.9
    • May 9: Happy Place

      May 9: Happy Place

      This week's assignment asks students to describe a place, real or imagined, in detail. Use this High 5 activity during the first five minutes of class or any time you want to assign a quick write.  

      SKILLS (3):Choose Words Carefully, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Precise Words
      STANDARDS:W.7.3.d
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Consider Language and Word Choice
        • Choose Words Carefully
        • Use Precise Words
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.3.d
    • May 16: High Stakes Tests

      May 16: High Stakes Tests

      This week's assignment asks students to take and support a position on high stakes testing. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a quick write.

      SKILLS (1):State an Opinion or Point of View
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State an Opinion or Point of View
    • May 23: Puerto Rico Statehood

      May 23: Puerto Rico Statehood

      This week's assignment asks students to take and support a position on statehood for Puerto Rico. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a quick write. 

      SKILLS (1):State an Opinion or Point of View
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State an Opinion or Point of View
    • May 30: Summer Work

      May 30: Summer Work

      This week's assignment asks students to use a formal style to share their qualifications for a summer job or internship. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a quick write. 

      SKILLS (1):Use Voice/Style/Tone
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.d
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Use Voice/Style/Tone
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.d
  • April 2022: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of April, 2022.

    • April 4: Disability in the Media

      April 4: Disability in the Media

      This week's assignment asks students to watch a short video and then share an opinion about representations of people with disabilities in popular media. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (3):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Cite Text Evidence, State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b, W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Cite Text Evidence
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
      • W.7.1.a
    • April 11: Effects of Covid-19

      April 11: Effects of Covid-19

      This week's assignment asks students to reflect on one way in which the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has changed their lives, for better or worse. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.

      SKILLS (2):Use Voice/Style/Tone, Choose Words Carefully
      STANDARDS:W.7.3.d
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Use Voice/Style/Tone
      • Choose Words Carefully
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.3.d
    • April 18: Favorite Musical Artist

      April 18: Favorite Musical Artist

      This week's assignment asks students to write a brief argument explaining what they like about a favorite musical act, and addressing a reason why someone might disagree with their choice. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a quickwrite.

      SKILLS (1):Consider & Refute Counterclaims
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Consider & Refute Counterclaims
    • April 25: Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety

      April 25: Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety

      This week's assignment asks students to explain one way to make a specific route safer for bicyclists and pedestrians. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write. 

      [Note: The optional link provides a general event overview for National Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day.]

      SKILLS (1):Demonstrate Understanding
      STANDARDS:W.7.9
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (2)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Demonstrate Understanding
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.9
  • March 2022: Weekly High 5's


    Make use of these prompts in the first 5 minutes of class to build students’ writing fluency through engagement in current events and timely issues for the month of March, 2022.

    • March 7: Dealing with Stress

      March 7: Dealing with Stress

      This week's assignment asks students to describe a strategy they use to handle stress. Use this HIgh Five Quick Write during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write experience. Students consider a topic and write from their own experience. Students should write in complete sentences.

      SKILLS (1):Follow the Prompt
      STANDARDS:W.7.4
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Follow the Prompt
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.4
    • March 14: World Conflicts

      March 14: World Conflicts

      This week's assignment asks students to weigh in on US international policy as it relates to the current conflict in the Ukraine. Use this HIgh Five Quick Write during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write experience. Students watch a video and respoind to a prompt based on this important topic in the news. 

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • March 21: Climate Change

      March 21: Climate Change

      This week's assignment asks students to state their opinions about the climate change crisis, based on a new scientific report published by the UN. Use this HIgh 5 Quick Write during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write experience. For additional background information, students may read a brief article before responding to the prompt.

      SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.a
    • March 28: Daylight Saving Time

      March 28: Daylight Saving Time

      This week's assignment asks students to state their opinions about Daylight Saving Time, based on a possible new legislation that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent. Use this HIgh 5 Quick Write during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write experience. For additional background information, students may read a brief article before responding to the prompt.

      SKILLS (3):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Cite Text Evidence, State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      STANDARDS:W.7.1.b, W.7.1.a
      FORMAT:High Five
      PROMPTS (1)
      Skills in this Assignment
      • Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
      • Cite Text Evidence
      • State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
      Standards in this Assignment
      • W.7.1.b
      • W.7.1.a

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