Writing+and+Writing+Test

Best Practices for Writing

Due to the preparation for the Georgia Middle Grades Writing Assessment in January, the eighth grade language arts teachers work together to provide uniform and specific expectations across all language arts classes.

Essay Rubric:

Essay Rubric (Student and Parent Version):

Essay Graphic Organizer:

Student Writing Checklist: Writing the Introduction and Thesis Statement:

Writing the Conclusion:

Transitional Words and Phrases:

Basic Writing Frames:

Preparing for the Georgia Middle Grades Writing Assessment

During the months of October and November, students will have an intensive writing unit designed to provide direct instruction regarding the expectations of the writing test. Further documents and information will be provided at that time. Note to Parents and Students: If you would like to see writing samples provided by the Department of Education, please view the "Improving Your Ideas" powerpoint. As you scroll through, you will see samples provided at all levels that have been written by Georgia students. This powerpoint will also show you how and why the samples received the individual "ideas" scores that they did.

Writing Test Overview and Expectations:   Improving Your Ideas Powerpoint (Blue, Red, Green):


 * Writing Notebook: ** 1. Cover Sheet 2. Notes: "Writing Test Informational Powerpoint" 3. Handout: Writing Prompts 4. Rubric 5. Handout: "Evaluation of Samples" 6. Notes: Introductions and Thesis Statements 7. Notes: Improving Ideas in the Body Paragraphs 8. Essay: Seattle Paper and Revisions 9. Handout: Conclusions (Tattoos) 10. Notes: Any additional class notes/practice