Standard: 8.W.5 – With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed. (Editing for conventions should demonstrate command of Language standards 1-3 up to and including grade 8 here.)
Grade level: Grade 8
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing
Teacher Overview
This standard emphasizes the importance of the writing process, including planning, revising, editing, and rewriting. It highlights the necessity of considering purpose and audience, and it ensures students can demonstrate command of language conventions. Mastery of this standard is crucial for developing effective written communication skills. Students should have foundational skills in drafting, revising, and editing, as well as a good grasp of basic grammar and language conventions from previous grades.
Students will develop the ability to independently refine their writing and use feedback effectively, preparing them for more advanced writing tasks in high school.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that revising is the same as editing. This is incorrect because revising focuses on improving the content and structure of the writing, while editing is about correcting grammar and conventions.
Intervention 1
Use side-by-side examples to show the differences between revising and editing. Have students practice both separately to understand their unique purposes.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that one round of revision is sufficient. This is incorrect because effective writing often requires multiple revisions to refine ideas and improve clarity.
Intervention 2
Provide examples of professional writers’ drafts and revisions to illustrate the iterative nature of the writing process. Encourage students to seek and incorporate feedback multiple times.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of the writing process, including drafting, revising, and editing. They should also be familiar with basic grammar and language conventions as outlined in Language standards 1-3 for earlier grades.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will be able to independently refine their writing by applying advanced editing techniques and using feedback effectively. They will also be better prepared for high school writing tasks that require a higher level of sophistication and audience awareness.
Instructional Activities
- Conduct peer review sessions where students give and receive constructive feedback.
- Organize writing workshops focusing on different stages of the writing process.
- Use writing rubrics to help students self-assess and edit their work.
- Incorporate technology tools for drafting, revising, and editing.
- Analyze professional writing samples to understand effective writing techniques.
