District Standards
In standards addressed, I'll focus on enduring understanding that have a great need. Students should understand pathos, logos, and ethos. They need to know a space can speak and that this is made possible by rhetorical tropes having parallels in architecture and design. They will discuss how contrasts in design create meaningful experiences. Persuasion through writing is strategic and requires evidence and that persuasion through speech depends on the circumstances. Also, figurative language has multiple connotations.
Figurative language connections and understandings are a fundamental piece of the seventh grade literacy standards:
RI.7.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings; analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone.
The writing, speaking and listening common core state standards (CCSS) are newly assessed for middle school students:
W.7.1 Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence. a) Introduce claim(s), acknowledge alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically. b) Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text. c) Use words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among claim(s), reasons, and evidence. d) Establish and maintain a formal style. e) Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
SL.7.4 Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with pertinent descriptions, facts, details, and examples; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation.
SL.7.6 Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
The art of persuasion is assessed as argument-based writing through CCSS and then students must deliver their writing in the form of an eloquent speech. These speeches will be given as tours of the interior and/or exterior of The Auditorium Theatre.
Images: Taken at Beinecke Rare Books and Manuscripts Library at Yale University
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