This I Believe-Emma 1 This I Believe-Emma 2 This I Believe-Emma 3 This I Believe-Emma 4
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This I Believe - Emma

School: Springfield Renaissance School

City/State: Springfield, MA

Grade(s): 10

Format(s): Essay

Subject(s): English Language Arts

Type(s): Argument/Opinion

Writing Assignment Description

Tenth-grade students at the Springfield Renaissance School in Springfield, Massachusetts, as part of their English Language Arts class, created This I Believe essays. The format for This I Believe essays has a long heritage, beginning with a radio program in the 1950’s with that name, hosted by journalist Edward R. Murrow. National Public Radio has continued the tradition of hosting famous and unknown citizens to write and orally present short essays that capture personal stories and personal beliefs, carrying on a tradition of celebrating narratives and promoting respect and appreciation for the beliefs of others.

The students in this classroom worked together, using models, peer critique and teacher critique, to craft these essays to share with the school community.

How This Writing Can Be Useful

  • Demonstrates a format that could be used in any classroom
  • Addresses a topic of common concern for both teachers and students
  • Excellent example of a real life experience expressed in a meaningful tone

Relevant Resources

This I Believe - Joanna

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.9-10.2
  • I can write informative/explanatory texts that convey complex ideas and concepts clearly and accurately, using content that is carefully selected, organized, and analyzed.
W.9-10.4
  • I can produce clear and coherent writing appropriate to task, purpose and audience.
W.9-10.5
  • I can use the writing process to focus on what is most significant for a specific purpose and audience.
L.9-10.2
  • I can use correct capitalization, punctuation and spelling to send a clear message to my reader.
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