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3rd Grade Reading Language Arts Newsletter

Module 4: Unit 2 “Developing an Opinion: The Importance of Water Conservation”

Module 4 Overview: This module focuses on the importance of clean freshwater around the
world. In Unit 1, students read the text One Well: The Story of Water on Earth to build background
knowledge about freshwater around the world and the three issues they will read more about in Unit 2:
access to water, demands on water, and water pollution. In Unit 2, students continue their study of the
three issues related to water, this time reading different texts about each issue and comparing the point of
view of the author to their own point of view. In the second half of the unit, they add to the research begun
in Unit 1 by rereading the module texts for solutions for each issue. Students then use the Painted Essay®
structure to write an opinion essay about the importance of water conservation.
In Unit 3, students plan and create a video public service announcement to educate people about their
chosen water issue and to encourage them to take action with specific recommendations to solve the
problem. They write invitational letters to guests for the live launch of their video PSA. For the performance
task, students present a live "launch" of the PSA (public service announcement) they created about a water
issue. The presentation includes a personal reflection on why this issue is important and a brief description
of the process of creating a public service announcement. This task centers on CCSS ELA RI.3.1, SL.3.4,
SL.3.6, and L.3.3b.

Guiding Questions: Unit 2 Overview:


• Why are the In Unit 2, students build on their knowledge of the three water issues begun in
world's Unit 1—access to water, demands on water, and water pollution—to develop an
freshwater opinion on the importance of conserving water. In the first half of the unit, they
sources read new texts and compare the point of view of the authors to their own point
threatened? of view about water. In the second half of the unit, students research actions to
• How do people help solve the water issues and consider the importance of solving these issues.
persuade Then, with teacher guidance, students write an opinion essay using the Painted
others to take Essay® structure about the importance of conserving water through the lens of
action to water pollution, drawing from their research throughout the module so far. For
contribute to a the End of Unit 2 Assessment, students plan and write a new opinion essay
better world? about the importance of conserving water through the lens of demand for water.
How can you support your child at home?
• Research and discuss water issues, particularly local water issues.
• Consider measuring how much water is being used at home. For example:
http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/freshwater/change-the-course/
water-footprint-calculator/
• Practice forming an opinion and supporting it with reasons and evidence.

Clipart by: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/ScottsScholars

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