Writing With PEARLS

1. Writing With PEARLS A systematic approach to writing Mr. Edom

2. Points Examples Analysis Relationships Language/Length Style/Substance

3. Points THESIS • Is it debatable? Defendable? • Does it address the prompt? TOPIC SENTENCES • Do they address the thesis? • Are the verbs active?

4. Examples TEXTUAL EVIDENCE • Do they directly support the topic sentence? • Are they brief? • Are there 1-2 examples from the text for each topic sentence? • Is the citation in MLA format?

5. Analysis OFFER AN EXPLANATION • How does the example support the topic sentence? • Why is the example important? • Are there at least two sentences of analysis per example?

6. Relationships • How does the topic sentence serve the thesis? • Is there a transition to the next topic sentence (first, second, finally, accordingly, as a result, consequently, likewise)

7. Language/LengthIs the language and length just right? Formal Language Informal Language Narrative essays Reflective essays Personal correspondence Email, texting • Scholarly writing • Literary analysis essays • Business writing Don’t use “I” in scholarly writing!

8. Style & Substance • WHAT you say is more important than HOW you say it. • Substance serves style. • Everything serves the thesis.

9. What an AP Grader Looks For • Points • Thesis hints/outlines structure of argument • Structure is evident immediately though paragraphs • Topic sentences introduce ideas (not evidence) • Examples • 1-2 quotes from the text, per paragraph at minimum • Analysis • 2 sentence minimum per example • Explanation of evidence is substantive, original, insightful • Relationships • Topic sentences relate back to thesis • Language/length • No use of “I” or “me” • Language is neutral and academic in tone • Includes intro, body, conclusion in 4-5 well developed paragraphs of 8-10 sentences (or more) • Style/substance • Timed writing gets to the point without fluff

10. Understanding Feedback Short Answer Rubric Grade Conversion 5/A 4/B 3/C 2/D 1/F NS/NOT SCORE Notes: A 3 on the AP exam is a passing score The exam is scored on a curve, so how you perform in relation to your peers matters • 5s include a skillful introduction/hook; responsive to prompt without being formulaic; ample textual evidence; extended and insightful analysis; analysis provides clear relationship to the prompt, thesis, and overall meaning of text; sophisticated use of language and appropriate style • 4s responsive to prompt; textual evidence; competent analysis; analysis provides clear relationship to the prompt, thesis, and overall meaning of text; less mature use of language; minor lapses in style • 3s responsive to prompt; fewer textual examples; less thorough analysis; minor lapses in language and style • 2sstudent misreads prompt or misinterprets text; analysis is grossly underdeveloped; language or style renders the argument unintelligible • 1soffbase and underdeveloped

11. The Nine Point Rubric Grade Conversion …and Other Markings PEARLS are used to quickly evaluate the content of your paper P+ signifies “good point, while a P- signifies a poor thesis or weak topic sentence Turnitin.com will give you comprehensive grammar feedback, with an option to review grammar rules • 9/A • 8/A- • 7/B • 6/B- • 5/C • 4/C • 3/D • 2/D- • 1/F

12. Strategizing for Improvement • Read your paper aloud to yourself; you will catch mistakes by “hearing” them • Interpret your score and teacher feedback • Ask questions if you cannot read the teacher’s handwriting • Be aware that your early writing scores are our baseline for the year, and represents your starting point; it takes time to develop into a great writer • Make a plan for improvement • Note your score and create a list of three goals you have for improving your writing • List questions you have about writing • Keep in mind that clear thinking is reflected in clear writing • Keep a positive attitude and open your mind to suggestions • Pursue tutoring in writing for extra attention