Objective In this activity, you will
write arguments using valid reasoning and sufficient evidence
write explanatory texts that convey complex concepts
Introduction
In this unit activity, you will write a formal letter on a debatable topic. Your letter will include arguments in support of a stance and sufficient evidence. You will also write a short research essay on a topic related to the English language and changes in usage.

Evaluation
Your teacher will use this rubric to evaluate the completeness of your work as well as the clarity of thinking you exhibit.

Task 1: Argumentative Writing

Criteria
Distinguished
(4 points)
The student appropriately explains the reasons for the choice of topic and audience.
The letter is centered on the thesis statement, which is clearly stated.
The letter demonstrates a good grasp of the topic in question, and the claim is supported convincingly.
The letter is very well organized and contains only minimal spelling or grammatical errors.
Proficient
(3 points)
The student adequately explains the reasons for the choice of topic and audience.
The letter is centered on the thesis statement, which is somewhat clearly stated.
The letter demonstrates an adequate grasp of the topic in question, and the claim is supported sufficiently.
The letter is well organized and contains few spelling or grammatical errors.
Developing
(2 points)
The student vaguely explains the reasons for the choice of topic and audience.
The letter is not centered on a clear thesis statement, and the claims are not supported with proper evidence.
The student demonstrates some grasp of the topic in question, but the claim is not supported convincingly.
The letter is not structured well, does not maintain a formal tone, and contains several spelling and grammatical errors.
Beginning
(1 point)
The student does not explain the reasons for the choice of topic and audience.
The letter does not have a thesis statement and presents conflicting views.
The student demonstrates a limited grasp of the topic in question, and the claim is not supported convincingly.
The letter is incoherent, does not attempt to establish a formal tone, and contains many spelling and grammatical errors.
Task 2: Research on Language Usage and Grammar

Criteria
Distinguished
(4 points)
The student displays excellent knowledge of language issues and usage.
The essay is well researched and centered on a clear thesis statement.
The student demonstrates a very good understanding of the subject and fulfills each item on the checklist appropriately.
The essay is very well organized and contains minimal spelling or grammatical errors.
Proficient
(3 points)
The student displays adequate knowledge of language issues and usage.
The essay is adequately researched and centered on a clear thesis statement.
The student demonstrates a reasonable understanding of the subject and fulfills each item on the checklist adequately.
The essay organized and contains few spelling or grammatical errors.
Developing
(2 points)
The student displays vague knowledge of language issues and usage.
The essay is not well researched and is not centered on a clear thesis statement.
The student demonstrates a vague understanding of the subject and minimally fulfills the items on the checklist.
The essay is unorganized and contains several spelling and grammatical errors.
Beginning
(1 point)
The student displays poor knowledge of language issues and usage.
The essay is not well researched and lacks a thesis statement.
The student demonstrates a poor understanding of the subject and does not fulfill the items on the checklist.
The essay is incoherent and contains many spelling and grammatical errors.