2-11-13

2-11-13 ~ Meeting Summary

Members Present: RF, RL, JB, CB, KN, BT, MS, DI, MJ, KL, SSM

Topic: Type 1 Collins Writing

Grade Nine PLG


 * Discussion: Type One writing**

__Features that should be part of Type One:__
 * Complete sentences not necessary
 * Effort-based
 * No right or wrong answer
 * Not content-based
 * Must be focused on the thoughts
 * Can include questions as well as statements
 * Drawings are acceptable if they support the writing
 * Timed writing or minimum number of lines written
 * The page should include “Type One” on top
 * There page needs an MLA-style name block
 * Skip lines

NOTE: Highlighted in yellow are what the group feels are the most important elements of Type One.

__Questions/concerns about Type One:__
 * Page set-up contradicts MLA format, something we teach and feel is important—confusing to students to have different page set-ups. We should keep page set-up consistent for students: Name block per MLA style should be standard.


 * Difficulty in introducing this mid-year—especially with Consultant students, who have learned another way to set up their papers. (“X-ing” out every other line can be confusing—maybe the X can be optional.)


 * Can we be flexible about skipping lines, depending on what is being asked? Example: In math, if students were writing equations, it would be difficult to skip lines.


 * Not all teachers are familiar with MLA format—the English department can share with staff the handout kids receive.


 * Is applying vocabulary and concepts in writing after being taught them in class Type One or Type Two? Consensus is that it depends on how you will grade it.

__Quotes from the text:__
 * “discourages perfectionism”
 * “an effort grade, not an academic grade”
 * “The audience for Type One is the student.”