RAFTS

1. RAFTS • ROLE of the writer (student) – helps the writer decide on the point of view or voice. • AUDIENCE for the writing – reminds the writer that he/she must communicate ideas to someone else. • FORMAT of the writing – helps the writer organize ideas as asked in the prompt. • TOPIC of the writing – helps the writer focus on the correct task. • STRONG VERB – reminds the writer of appropriate voice and writing purpose

2. From Land of Dreams It is 1850. You are (Kirstin or Johan), a teenager from Sweden. Several years ago, your family immigrated to the United States to find a better life. Your family now farms in North Dakota. Yesterday you received a letter from your cousin in Sweden. Your cousin misses you and wants to know about your new life in North Dakota. In a letter, describe the similarities and differences between living in North Dakota and Sweden. Be sure to compare your home, school, family traditions, and community events for your cousin.

3. From The Island Imagine you are Anne Kelliher, reporter for the PINEWOOD CALLER. You have just interviewed 15 year old Wil Neuton, who has spent his summer alone on Sucker Lake. You are impressed with his interest in nature and his desire to be introspective. In fact, through your interview, you have come to see him as a modern day Thoreau. Write a feature story that captures Wil’s personality, his insights, and his relationship with the environment. Be sure to include several quotations from your interview as well as a description of Sucker Island. Audience – not clearly stated, but implied

4. Applies to all content areas You are an architect. After reviewing the blueprints for a new house that were done by another architect, you noticed that the area of the building was incorrectly calculated. In a memo to the owners of the new house, explain how this problem could have happened, and how this problem might affect the structure itself, the landscaping, and any other area of their new home.