Lesson on Persuasive Writing Using "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio. Includes Analyzing Techniques, Developing Arguments, and Group Discussions.

Lesson Plan: Persuasive Writing on the Book "Wonder"

Introduction:

• Begin the lesson by asking the students if they have ever read the book "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio.
• Show the book cover and briefly explain the plot and main characters.
• Explain that today's lesson will focus on persuasive writing, where they will have the opportunity to express their opinions and persuade others using evidence from the book.

Lesson Outline:

1. Warm-up Activity (5 minutes):

• Show a short video clip related to the theme of kindness and empathy, such as "Random Acts of Kindness" or "The Power of Empathy."
• Discuss the importance of kindness and empathy in our daily lives and how it relates to the book "Wonder."

1. Introduction to Persuasive Writing (10 minutes):

• Define persuasive writing as a form of writing that aims to convince the reader to agree with a particular point of view.
• Discuss the purpose of persuasive writing and its relevance in everyday life.
• Provide examples of persuasive writing, such as advertisements, opinion articles, or persuasive speeches.

1. Analyzing Persuasive Techniques in "Wonder" (15 minutes):

• Divide the class into small groups and provide each group with a worksheet that includes excerpts from the book "Wonder."
• Instruct the students to read the excerpts and identify persuasive techniques used by the author, such as emotional appeal, rhetorical questions, or evidence-based arguments.
• After completing the worksheet, have each group share their findings with the class.

1. Developing Persuasive Arguments (15 minutes):

• Distribute a graphic organizer worksheet to each student.
• Instruct the students to choose a character from the book "Wonder" and think about a persuasive argument related to that character.
• Encourage them to use evidence from the book to support their argument.
• Provide support and guidance as needed.

1. Differentiation: Group Discussions (10 minutes):

• Divide the class into smaller groups based on their writing abilities.
• Assign each group a specific topic related to the book "Wonder" and persuasive writing.
• Provide differentiated prompts or sentence starters to support students who may need additional assistance.
• Monitor and facilitate group discussions, ensuring that each student has an opportunity to contribute.

1. Assessment: Persuasive Writing Task (15 minutes):

• Instruct the students to use their graphic organizer to write a persuasive paragraph or short essay on their chosen topic.
• Emphasize the importance of using persuasive techniques and evidence from the book to support their arguments.
• Collect and assess the students' writing for understanding of persuasive writing techniques and their ability to effectively express their opinions.

Plenary:

• Have a few students share their persuasive writing pieces with the class.
• Discuss the strengths and areas for improvement in their writing.
• Recap the main points covered in the lesson and highlight the importance of persuasive writing skills in expressing opinions and influencing others.

Video Resources:

1. "Random Acts of Kindness" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zwz1HsdzZ4E
2. "The Power of Empathy" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Evwgu369Jw

Worksheet Resources:

1. Persuasive Techniques in "Wonder" Worksheet

• Example: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Persuasive-Techniques-in-Wonder-Worksheet-4156787

1. Graphic Organizer Worksheet

• Example: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Persuasive-Writing-Graphic-Organizer-Worksheet-4156792