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 9-12 Social Studies Common Literacy Assignment 2008-2009

 

Grades 9-12 HS Social Studies Common Literacy Assignment 2008-2009

The 2008-2009 common assignment prompt will remain the same as for 2007-2008. “Write a convincing argument defending a position on an issue in Social Studies; include multiple perspectives and historic context.”

The common assignment scores and sample papers are due to Research and Evaluation by Feb. 13, 2009 although it can be assigned any time before this during the school year.

The modified rubric reflects the feedback you provided over the last several months, resulting in a much better and clearer document.

New Rubric (PDF)

The new rubric has five traits; Thesis, Support/evidence, Organization, Communication, and Documentation. The documentation trait has been included for teachers who want to have students include a “Works Cited” page with a persuasive essay; however, it is not a required element and will not be used in the scores reported to the district.

For the 2008-2009 school year we will continue to turn in a holistic score for each paper to the district, and this year “.5”  scores may be submitted (e.g. 2.5). Opinion among SS teachers was split on the desire to turn in analytic scores vs. a single holistic score. At this point the district’s data system is not set up to receive analytic scores but this may change in the future enabling us to revisit the issue.

By popular demand, all papers will be done in the MLA format. This common expectation makes this part of the process easier and more predictable for teachers and students alike. Even though various format types are required in departments at colleges and universities around the country this will reinforce a common post secondary expectation for all students. The following linked MLA templates can make the process clear and simple. These templates are available online for easy student access.

MLA Template (PDF)                     
MLA Annotated Template (PDF)



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