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January 2025: 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 January 2025. 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.-
January 13: Poppy the Pygmy Hippo
January 13: Poppy the Pygmy Hippo
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation that makes inferences about why media attention is key for the conservation of pygmy hippos. 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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Make Inferences (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.1
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January 13: A Marathon a Day Pushes Limits Away
January 13: A Marathon a Day Pushes Limits Away
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about a task they could do every day and identify potential challenges and benefits. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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January 6: Record Heatwaves and a Reef Rescue Mission
January 6: Record Heatwaves and a Reef Rescue Mission
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary that explains the threats to coral reefs and efforts to protect them. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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January 6: Remembering President Jimmy Carter’s Legacy
January 6: Remembering President Jimmy Carter’s Legacy
This week's assignment asks students to write ways they can help their community through service or volunteering. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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December 2024: 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 2024. 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 30: Remembering the Fierce and Lyrical Voice of Nikki Giovanni
December 30: Remembering the Fierce and Lyrical Voice of Nikki Giovanni
This week's assignment asks students to write a poem that expresses something important about them or the world. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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December 30: Meowseum Nights
December 30: Meowseum Nights
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim for or against allowing pets into more public spaces. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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December 16: McCaffrey’s Words of Wisdom
December 16: McCaffrey’s Words of Wisdom
This week's assignment asks students to reflect on how Christian McCaffrey’s words could be applied to their lives. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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December 16: Brighter Days Ahead
December 16: Brighter Days Ahead
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary describing the facts they find most interesting about winter solstice. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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December 9: Defying Ableism
December 9: Defying Ableism
This week's assignment asks students to write a description of a strategy they could use to combat ableism within their communities. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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December 9: ‘Tis the Season to be Eco-Friendly
December 9: ‘Tis the Season to be Eco-Friendly
This week's assignment asks students to write a brief argument on whether an artificial or real Christmas tree is more environmentally sustainable. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.b, W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
- W.7.1.a
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December 2: Giving Tuesday
December 2: Giving Tuesday
This week's assignment asks students to choose a cause they are interested in and write an explanation about how they might help that cause on Giving Tuesday. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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December 2: A Major Step Forward
December 2: A Major Step Forward
This week's assignment asks students to state a claim and provide an argument introduction. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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November 2024: 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 2024. 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.
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November 25: The Power of Storytelling
November 25: The Power of Storytelling
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary that explains the main idea expressed in the video. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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November 25: Featherweight Star
November 25: Featherweight Star
This week's assignment asks students to write a narrative through the eyes of Pesto the king penguin. 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 StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Strong Beginning
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Establish a Situation
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.a
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November 18: Going for Gophers
November 18: Going for Gophers
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about the impact of the gophers on Mount St. Helens. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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November 18: Keeping Languages Alive
November 18: Keeping Languages Alive
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about the importance of preserving a native language. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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November 11: Projecting Across Time
November 11: Projecting Across Time
This week's assignment asks students to write a description of a significant event or era in their town’s history that they would want projected on a building. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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November 11: Healing Through Harvesting and Heritage
November 11: Healing Through Harvesting and Heritage
This week's assignment asks students to summarize the video by identifying its main idea and explaining one thing they learned. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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November 4: A Long Overdue Apology
November 4: A Long Overdue Apology
This week's assignment asks students to write a brief argument that discusses whether an apology is sufficient for historical injustices or if further action is needed. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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November 4: Life In Vivid Color
November 4: Life In Vivid Color
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation of which landmark should be made more accessible to people with colorblindness. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
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October 2024: 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 2024. 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.
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October 28: Observing Traditions Through an Ofrenda
October 28: Observing Traditions Through an Ofrenda
This week's assignment asks students to explain what elements they would include on an ofrenda honoring a specific person or pet of their 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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October 28: Cozy Up with a Good Game
October 28: Cozy Up with a Good Game
This week's assignment asks students to imagine their own cozy game and write a description of it. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Provide a Focus Statement, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.a, W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Focus Statement
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.a
- W.7.2.b
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October 21: Wild About Photography
October 21: Wild About Photography
This week's assignment asks students to choose a favorite wildlife photo and write a description explaining why it’s their favorite. 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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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October 21: Barbie Lights the Way!
October 21: Barbie Lights the Way!
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about the benefits of culturally diverse toys for both underrepresented and well-represented audiences. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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October 14: Shortcoming or Superpower?
October 14: Shortcoming or Superpower?
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about their superpowers. 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 CarefullySTANDARDS:W.7.1.dFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Use Voice/Style/Tone
- Choose Words Carefully
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.d
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October 14: #IndigenousPeople'sDay!
October 14: #IndigenousPeople'sDay!
This week's assignment asks students to write a plan for a TikTok about something that makes them special. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
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October 7: From Mud Pits to Mega-Fame
October 7: From Mud Pits to Mega-Fame
This week's assignment asks students to write a brief narrative from the point of view of pgymy hippo Moo Deng’s mother. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Develop Beginning/Middle/End, Introduce the StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.b, W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Develop Beginning/Middle/End
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.b
- W.7.3.a
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October 7: Speaking Spanglish
October 7: Speaking Spanglish
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about their favorite word from another language and explain 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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September 2024: 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 2024. 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.
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September 30: The Music that Makes Us
September 30: The Music that Makes Us
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about which musical genre best reflects their identity. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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September 30: An Out-of-this-World Journey
September 30: An Out-of-this-World Journey
This week's assignment asks students to write a narrative from the point of view of a visiting mini-moon describing its visit to Earth. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Develop Beginning/Middle/End, Introduce the StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.b, W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Develop Beginning/Middle/End
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.b
- W.7.3.a
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September 23: Featured Creature
September 23: Featured Creature
This week's assignment asks students to write an ad for a bird that represents their community. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.b, W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
- W.7.1.a
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September 23: Rooted in Culture
September 23: Rooted in Culture
This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection in which they connect elements of the Tree of Life sculpture to their own personal experiences. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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September 16: Hispanic Heritage Through a Gallery Lens
September 16: Hispanic Heritage Through a Gallery Lens
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about the importance of a museum exhibit. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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September 9: Accidents Happen
September 9: Accidents Happen
This week's assignment asks students to write an argument for or against the use of protective barriers in museums. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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September 9: The Setting is Trees
September 9: The Setting is Trees
This week's assignment asks students to write a brief narrative, drawing inspiration from details of a tree photograph. 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 StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Strong Beginning
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Establish a Situation
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.a
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September 5: Paralympic Athletes Champion Social Justice
September 5: Paralympic Athletes Champion Social Justice
This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection in which they share a change they’re passionate about. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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September 5: Let's Make Some Noise (and Energy)!
September 5: Let's Make Some Noise (and Energy)!
This week's assignment asks students to write about new ways to generate energy. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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Summer 2024: 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 Summer 2024. 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.
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August 26: Banksy in the Eye of the Beholder
August 26: Banksy in the Eye of the Beholder
This week's assignment asks students to write an argument about whether some forms of street art should be valued above others. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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August 26: Back-to-School Wisdom
August 26: Back-to-School Wisdom
This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection in which they share back-to-school advice for a successful year with a younger student. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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August 19: Tech Trends Transform Learning
August 19: Tech Trends Transform Learning
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation of the technology they would like to use in school and discuss potential drawbacks of this technology. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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August 19: Is Gen Alpha Slang Skibidi or Ohio?
August 19: Is Gen Alpha Slang Skibidi or Ohio?
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation of their favorite slang term. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
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August 5: Gold Medal Moments!
August 5: Gold Medal Moments!
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about why they will be watching the Olympics this year. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
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August 5: Don't Waste, Replace!
August 5: Don't Waste, Replace!
This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection about living without plastic. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Provide a Focus Statement, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.a, W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Focus Statement
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.a
- W.7.2.b
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July 22: Spotlight on Disabilty Pride
July 22: Spotlight on Disabilty Pride
This week's assignment is to write a summary about the message conveyed in Eddie Ndopu’s video. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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July 22: National Ice Cream Month
July 22: National Ice Cream Month
This week's assignment asks students to write a plan for how to break a Guinness World Record related to ice cream. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Provide a Focus Statement, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.a, W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Focus Statement
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.a
- W.7.2.b
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July 8: Drown Out the Noise
July 8: Drown Out the Noise
This week's assignment asks students to write a narrative that imagines what life would be like without a common noise or sound. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (3):Use Voice/Style/Tone, Choose Words Carefully, Consider Language and Word ChoiceSTANDARDS:W.7.3.dFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Use Voice/Style/Tone
- Choose Words Carefully
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.d
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Consider Language and Word Choice
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July 8: Things People With Disabilities Wish You Knew
July 8: Things People With Disabilities Wish You Knew
This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection explaining their understanding of the experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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June 2024: 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 June 2024. 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.
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June 24: The Miracle of the White Buffalo
June 24: The Miracle of the White Buffalo
This week's assignment asks students to write a description of an unusual event in nature and an explanation of its meaning. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
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June 24: Pride and Perseverance: Ukraine Marches On
June 24: Pride and Perseverance: Ukraine Marches On
This week's assignment asks students to write a reflection about why it is important to stand up for what you believe in. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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June 17: Pride in You
June 17: Pride in You
This week's assignment asks students to design a flag that includes elements important to their identity and write a description of why the colors and symbols they chose represent 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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June 17: From Emancipation to Celebration!
June 17: From Emancipation to Celebration!
This week's assignment asks students to watch a short video and write an explanation that connects the history of Juneteenth to acts of equality and justice today. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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June 10: Breaking Barriers, Making History
June 10: Breaking Barriers, Making History
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation on the importance of representation in politics. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
-
June 10: Panda-monium at the National Zoo
June 10: Panda-monium at the National Zoo
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about a video announcing the return of two giant pandas to the Smithsonian National Zoo. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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June 3: Pride in Every Color!
June 3: Pride in Every Color!
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about a Pride Month art project they would choose to create from the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s website. 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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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June 3: Game Changer for College Sports
June 3: Game Changer for College Sports
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about whether student athletes should be paid. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
-
-
May 2024: 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 May 2024. 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.
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May 27: Breakdancing With a Range of (E)motion!
May 27: Breakdancing With a Range of (E)motion!
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about how taking care of their mental health can contribute to achieving goals. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
-
May 27: Black Astronaut Reached for the Stars, Finally Lands in Space
May 27: Black Astronaut Reached for the Stars, Finally Lands in Space
This week's assignment asks students to summarize an article about the first Black astronaut. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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May 20: Making Waves: The Father of Modern Surfing
May 20: Making Waves: The Father of Modern Surfing
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about a hobby or interest they have discovered through cultural influences. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
-
May 13: Honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Women
May 13: Honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Women
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary of an article about an important AAPI woman. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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May 13: Rakus's Remedy in the Jungle Pharmacy
May 13: Rakus's Remedy in the Jungle Pharmacy
This week's assignment asks students to write a personal narrative about a time they witnessed an animal displaying humanlike behaviors. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Develop Beginning/Middle/End, Introduce the StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.b, W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Develop Beginning/Middle/End
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.b
- W.7.3.a
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May 6: Asian American Pacific Islander Authors
May 6: Asian American Pacific Islander Authors
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about a book they would choose to read by an AAPI author. 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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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May 6: Now You See Me, Now You Don't
May 6: Now You See Me, Now You Don't
This week's assignment asks students to write a narrative about being invisible. 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 StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Strong Beginning
-
Establish a Situation
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.a
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May 20: Warp Drives: More Science Than Fiction
May 20: Warp Drives: More Science Than Fiction
This week's assignment asks students to write a science fiction narrative about warp-drives. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Use Narrative Techniques, Develop a NarrativeSTANDARDS:W.7.3.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
-
Develop a Narrative
- Use Narrative Techniques
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.b
-
Develop a Narrative
-
-
April 2024: 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 April 2024. 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.
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April 29: The Fusion of Art and Technology
April 29: The Fusion of Art and Technology
This week's assignment asks students to write an argument about AI use in literature. 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Elaborate (Arg)
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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April 29: Middle Eastern Eats and Treats
April 29: Middle Eastern Eats and Treats
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about which Middle Eastern food they love or would 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):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)STANDARDS:RI.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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April 22: Arab American Poets
April 22: Arab American Poets
This week's assignment asks students to write a brief literary response to a poem by an Arab American poet. 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 (LR), Make Inferences (LR)STANDARDS:RL.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (LR)
- Make Inferences (LR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RL.7.1
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Quick Write: Earth Day - Synthesize
Quick Write: Earth Day - Synthesize
In this assignment, students to write a reflective statement about a hope they have for the future of Earth. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
Duration: 5-10 minutes
SKILLS (2):Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR)STANDARDS:RI.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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April 15: Cartooning Awkwardness
April 15: Cartooning Awkwardness
This week's assignment asks students to write an opinion about whether humor can help with difficult times. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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April 15: Father and Son Bond Over Eclipse
April 15: Father and Son Bond Over Eclipse
This week's assignment asks students to write a description about a time they made the most of a disappointing situation. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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April 8: Dream a Little Dream
April 8: Dream a Little Dream
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation of a dream students want to pursue, and a list of steps they could take to do so. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Provide a Focus Statement, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.a, W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Focus Statement
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.a
- W.7.2.b
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April 8: Finding a Fur-ever Home
April 8: Finding a Fur-ever Home
This week's assignment asks students to write a short narrative from the point of view of an adopted dog. 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 StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Strong Beginning
-
Establish a Situation
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.a
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April 1: Jump On Board the De-Influencer Train
April 1: Jump On Board the De-Influencer Train
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim in the form of a social media post de-influencing a product or service they think is useless. Please Note: Students are instructed to listen to the audio of the article. The print version of the article contains links that may be inappropriate for students.
SKILLS (1):State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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April 1: The Yurok Tribe Reclaims Their Land
April 1: The Yurok Tribe Reclaims Their Land
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about how the Yurok tribe is benefitting shared land. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
-
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March 2024: 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 March 2024. 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.
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March 25: Animals Go Wild for Eclipses
March 25: Animals Go Wild for Eclipses
This week's assignment asks students to write an action plan for observing animals during an eclipse. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
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March 25: The Women Pioneers of NASA Reached for the Skies
March 25: The Women Pioneers of NASA Reached for the Skies
This week's assignment asks students to write an aspiration for the future. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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March 18: "Board Bros" Clean Pools for the Perfect Surface
March 18: "Board Bros" Clean Pools for the Perfect Surface
This week's assignment asks students to write a description of a favorite game or game move. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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March 18: Woman Sails Solo and Stands Tall
March 18: Woman Sails Solo and Stands Tall
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary of sailor Cole Brauer’s historic race around the world. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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March 11: Caitlin Clark Becomes a Legend
March 11: Caitlin Clark Becomes a Legend
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about one of record-setter Caitlin Clark’s achievements leading up to her biggest one. 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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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March 11: Small Food Source, Big Impact
March 11: Small Food Source, Big Impact
This week's assignment asks students to write a short sci-fi narrative about a space mission using a sustainable food source. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Develop Beginning/Middle/End, Introduce the StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.b, W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Develop Beginning/Middle/End
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.b
- W.7.3.a
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March 4: Traditions Go Digital
March 4: Traditions Go Digital
This week's assignment asks students to respond to a writing prompt about using the power of community for the greater good. 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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March 4: Boosting the Profiles of Women in History
March 4: Boosting the Profiles of Women in History
This week's assignment asks students to write an opinion about a woman they might choose to spotlight to help make women’s efforts more visible. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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February 2024: 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 February 2024. 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.
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February 26: Families of Black Heroes Meet at White House
February 26: Families of Black Heroes Meet at White House
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary about the future efforts of the families of Black icons. 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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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February 26: Dive into the World of Deepfakes
February 26: Dive into the World of Deepfakes
This week's assignment asks students write a definition of the word deepfake using their own words and cite real-world examples. 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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Make Inferences (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.1
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February 19: Warming Winters Leave Some Activities Out in the Cold
February 19: Warming Winters Leave Some Activities Out in the Cold
This week's assignment asks students to write a response to a prompt about activities and events affected by climate change. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
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February 19: Chapman's "Fast Car" Makes More Black History
February 19: Chapman's "Fast Car" Makes More Black History
This week's assignment asks students to write a definition for art, based on their own experiences. 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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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February 12: Ready or Not, Social Media Restrictions Are Trending
February 12: Ready or Not, Social Media Restrictions Are Trending
This week's assignment asks students to write an opinion about new privacy restrictions in social media. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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February 12: The Importance of Art in Celebrating Black History
February 12: The Importance of Art in Celebrating Black History
This week's assignment asks students to write a statement about a Black artist who has made an impact in their 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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February 5: Lost and Found Cities
February 5: Lost and Found Cities
This week's assignment asks students to write a comparison between the Upano Valley civilization and features of our current civilization. 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.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.3
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February 5: Martin Luther King Jr.'s Granddaughter Honors His Legacy
February 5: Martin Luther King Jr.'s Granddaughter Honors His Legacy
This week's assignment asks students to write a service goal inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s granddaughter. 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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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January 2024: 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 January 2024. 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.
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January 29: The Dark Side of Star Wars Fandom
January 29: The Dark Side of Star Wars Fandom
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about how Star Wars or another franchise should be inclusive. 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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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January 29: No Monkey Business Here!
January 29: No Monkey Business Here!
This week's assignment asks students to write a statement about the importance of increasing gorilla populations with evidence cited from 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):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Make Inferences (IR)STANDARDS:RI.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Make Inferences (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.1
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January 22: Deep Down, Blobfish Aren't Ugly
January 22: Deep Down, Blobfish Aren't Ugly
This week's assignment asks students to write a short narrative from the point of view of a blobfish. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Develop Beginning/Middle/End, Introduce the StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.b, W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Develop Beginning/Middle/End
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.b
- W.7.3.a
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January 22: Changing the Climate of Youth Activism
January 22: Changing the Climate of Youth Activism
This week's assignment asks students to write an explanation about how they might contribute to a cause that's important to 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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January 16, 2024: All That Glitters Is Not Gold
January 16, 2024: All That Glitters Is Not Gold
This week's assignment asks students to write a warning to persuade others. 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 CarefullySTANDARDS:W.7.1.dFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Use Voice/Style/Tone
- Choose Words Carefully
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.d
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January 16, 2024: Actor Lily Gladstone Speaks Blackfeet at Golden Globes
January 16, 2024: Actor Lily Gladstone Speaks Blackfeet at Golden Globes
This week's assignment asks students to write a summary of Lily Gladstone’s Best Actress Award acceptance speech at the Golden Globes. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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January 8, 2024: What's the Word?
January 8, 2024: What's the Word?
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about which word they would add to the Banished Words List. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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January 8, 2024: The Road Less Traveled
January 8, 2024: The Road Less Traveled
This week's assignment asks students to summarize a video about students looking for college alternatives. 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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January 2, 2024: Luna Luna: Let Imaginations Soar
January 2, 2024: Luna Luna: Let Imaginations Soar
This week's assignment asks students to write a brief narrative about a carnival ride they would like to create. Use this High 5 activity during the first 5 minutes of class, or anytime you want to assign a Quick Write.
SKILLS (2):Develop Beginning/Middle/End, Introduce the StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.b, W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Develop Beginning/Middle/End
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.b
- W.7.3.a
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January 2, 2024: New Year, New You
January 2, 2024: New Year, New You
This week's assignment asks students write both a New Year’s resolution and a plan for sticking to it. 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
-
Develop a Topic
- Elaborate (Info)
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.b
-
Develop a Topic
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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.
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December 18: Tailor Your Choice for Person of the Year
December 18: Tailor Your Choice for Person of the Year
This week's assignment asks students to write a claim about who they would choose for person of the year and why. 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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December 18: Child Labor Adds a Bitter Taste to Chocolate
December 18: Child Labor Adds a Bitter Taste to Chocolate
This week's assignment asks students to write a recommendation for ending child labor in the chocolate industry. 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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.
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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 TopicSTANDARDS:W.7.4FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Follow the Prompt
- Stay on Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.4
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Elaborate (Arg)
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Elaborate (Arg)
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Make Inferences (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.1
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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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
-
Develop a Topic
- Elaborate (Info)
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.b
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Develop a Topic
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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.
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Elaborate (Arg)
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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 StorySTANDARDS:W.7.3.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Provide a Strong Beginning
-
Establish a Situation
- Introduce the Story
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.a
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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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.
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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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.9
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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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 NarrativeSTANDARDS:W.7.3.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Development & Elaboration
-
Develop a Narrative
- 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.2FORMAT:High FiveSkills 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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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.7.8FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Evaluate Ideas & Texts (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.8
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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.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.3
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.3
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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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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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 TopicSTANDARDS:RI.7.2, RI.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.2
- RI.7.3
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.b
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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.
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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 UnderstandingSTANDARDS:W.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Demonstrate Understanding
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.9
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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 TopicSTANDARDS:W.7.4FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Follow the Prompt
- Stay on Topic
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.4
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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.7.1FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Make Inferences (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.1
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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.
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Elaborate (Info)
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.b
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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 & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.2.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Elaborate (Info)
- State an Opinion or Point of View
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.b
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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/OpinionSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Establish a Claim/Opinion
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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 ViewFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Style
- State an Opinion or Point of View
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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 SequentiallySTANDARDS:W.7.2.a, W.7.5FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize Sequentially
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.2.a
- W.7.5
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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.
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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.7.3FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Demonstrate Comprehension (IR)
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.7.3
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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.
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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 EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.7.9, W.7.1.bFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (LR)
- Demonstrate Comprehension (LR)
- Demonstrate Understanding
- Cite Text Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.9
- W.7.1.b
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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 (2):Choose Words Carefully, Consider Language and Word ChoiceSTANDARDS:W.7.3.dFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Choose Words Carefully
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.d
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Consider Language and Word Choice
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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 ViewFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State an Opinion or Point of View
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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 ViewFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State an Opinion or Point of View
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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/ToneSTANDARDS:W.7.1.dFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Use Voice/Style/Tone
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.d
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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.
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.b, W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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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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 CarefullySTANDARDS:W.7.3.dFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Use Voice/Style/Tone
- Choose Words Carefully
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.3.d
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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 CounterclaimsFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Consider & Refute Counterclaims
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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 UnderstandingSTANDARDS:W.7.9FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Demonstrate Understanding
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.9
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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.
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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 PromptSTANDARDS:W.7.4FORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- Follow the Prompt
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.4
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills in this Assignment
- State a Claim, Opinion, or Point of View
Standards in this Assignment
- W.7.1.a
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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 ViewSTANDARDS:W.7.1.b, W.7.1.aFORMAT:High FiveSkills 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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January 2025: 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 January 2025. 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 2024: 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 2024. 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 2024: 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 2024. 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.
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October 2024: 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 2024. 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.
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September 2024: 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 2024. 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.
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Summer 2024: 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 Summer 2024. 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.
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June 2024: 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 June 2024. 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.
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May 2024: 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 May 2024. 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.
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April 2024: 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 April 2024. 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.
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March 2024: 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 March 2024. 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.
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February 2024: 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 February 2024. 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.
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January 2024: 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 January 2024. 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
-
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.
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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.
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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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
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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.
-
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.
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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.
-
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.
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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.