These essays are due THURSDAY, September 19th, 2014.

To print this slide, click it, then click the image on the next page for a full size copy.2014 Essay AnnotatedTo strengthen Southwest’s ability to participate in this district wide writing contest, I have attempted to gather resources students can use for this extensive essay project. Below, is how I would present the assignment and resources that could be used in your classroom.

First, I suggest you present the prompt in order to ensure each child understands the assignment itself. Words that could pose problems are:

  • deplete (also depletion) – having to do with the a serious decrease or to exhaust the abundance or supply of
  • degraded – to reduce in amount, strength, or intensity
  • sustainable – able to be used without being completely used up or destroyed – see more
  • sustainability – the ability to be sustained, supported, upheld, confirmed – see more
  • conserve – to protect from loss or harm – see more
  • expository – writing to explain, inform – see more
  • persuasive – writing to persuade, convince, sway – see more

Second, I would read through the PROMPT with them paying special attention to the terminology listed above. Take one RESOURCE through the prompt as you go through it; for instance – WATER. Have the children mark or highlight important/key ideas and instructions in the prompt.

Here is the WRITING PROMPT:

Currently our world population is slightly above 7 billion and by 2050 the population is expected to exceed 9 billion. In a world where we have already seen depleted and significantly degraded resources (water, soil, minerals, food, air, etc.) we have to wonder how can we avoid complete depletion or destruction of our resources and environment.  After selecting a specific resource, research sustainable efforts used to conserve this resource and protect our planet.

Write an expository essay presenting and explaining the current challenges and importance of sustaining the selected resource using international examples from around the world. Be sure to include current methods of sustainability used by different countries and support your discussion with evidence from your research. What conclusions can you draw?

Third, I would present a skeletal outline to those children who need the extra support.

I am introducing the topic – sustainability – today with this PPT . . Introduction to Sustainability.

The following 2 presentations can provide some more specific background on sustainability:

After students use these and other resources they can find on their own, they can decide where they want to focus.

Here is the WRITING PROMPT:

Currently our world population is slightly above 7 billion and by 2050 the population is expected to exceed 9 billion. In a world where we have already seen depleted and significantly degraded resources (water, soil, minerals, food, air, etc.) we have to wonder how can we avoid complete depletion or destruction of our resources and environment.  After selecting a specific resource, research sustainable efforts used to conserve this resource and protect our planet.

Write an expository essay presenting and explaining the current challenges and importance of sustaining the selected resource using international examples from around the world. Be sure to include current methods of sustainability used by different countries and support your discussion with evidence from your research. What conclusions can you draw?

Here is a suggested (skeletal) outline that could help anyone organize this assignment. It, like everything else about me, is not perfect. It will help, though. –  2014 Young Explorers Global Essay Competition – Outline With Countries.

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