Student Work 1

ELA	Performance Task	9-4 final
(Content Area)		(Grade Level-Task Number)

Standard(s):

Writing

E2c The student produces a narrative (fictional or autobiographical) account that:

E2c.1 engages the reader by establishing a context, creating a point of view, and

otherwise developing reader interest;

E2c.2 establishes a situation, plot, point of view, setting, and conflict (and for

autobiography, the significance of events and of conclusions that can be

drawn from the events).

E2c.3 creates an organizing structure

E2c.4 includes sensory details and concrete language to develop plot and character

E2c.3 excludes extraneous details and inconsistencies

E2c.6 develops complex characters

E2c.7 uses a range of appropriate strategies, such as dialogue, tension or suspense,

naming, pacing and specific narrative action, e.g., movement, gestures,

expressions

E2c.8 provides a sense of closure to the writing.

Reading

E1c The student reads and comprehends informational materials to develop understanding and expertise and produces written or oral work that:

E1c.2 relates new information to prior knowledge or experience

E1c.3 extends ideas

E1c.4 makes a connection to related topics or information.

Performance Task:

The events of September 11, 2001, called for and provided history with accounts of individuals who showed extraordinary strength and courage in the face of tragedy. Read or view accounts of heroic efforts during the 9-11 Terrorist Attack on America (http://www.google.com/search?q+personal+accounts+of+the+tragedy+on+9+11+10).

1. Interview heroes that you know personally or interview others to learn their definitions of heroism.

2. Analyze the information you gained to formulate a list of characteristics of a hero. How would you define courage? What attributes would an individual described as “strong and brave” display? What is a hero?

3. Use your notes and insights to write an autobiographical narrative following the directions below.

Everyone has had to be strong or brave one time or another. Recall a time when you were a hero. Think about the situation and what you did that required strength or courage. Think about how you felt during that time.

4. Write an autobiographical narrative that describes the event and what prompted you to be brave and courageous. Include your point of view regarding the situation, the reasons for your heroic effort, and other details that enhance and support the experience. Use your analysis of the characteristics of a hero in your writing as a way to reflect on your actions. How did you display the characteristics of a hero in your writing?

Circumstances of Performance:

The student work is produced under the following conditions:

X	Alone		In a group
X	In class	X	As homework
	With teacher feedback		With peer feedback
	Timed	X	Extended project
		X	Opportunity for revision

Criteria for Success:

1. Takes notes and summarizes information material.

2. Establishes a situation.

3. Creates and organizing structure.

4. Uses detail to engage interest.

5. Demonstrates an understanding of the rules of the English language in written work.

6. Produces a final product that meets publication standards.

Related Standard(s):

E4a. The student independently demonstrates an understanding of the rules of the English language in written and oral work, and selects the structures and features of language appropriate to the purpose, audience, and context of the work. The student demonstrates control of:

E4a.1 grammar

E4a.2 paragraph structure

E4a.3 punctuation

E4a.4 sentence construction

E4a.5 spelling

E4a.6 usage