Common Core Spotlight An Argument-Writing Activity Hits Three
Key Standards We know that during test-prep season it’s
important to find engaging activities that will reinforce
multiple skills. That’s why we’re so excited about this issue’s
Readers Theater Play, The Secret Soldier. It’s based on the
incredible true story of Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself
as a man so she could fight in the American Revolution. After
students read the play, they’ll tackle our one-page debate,
“Should Women Be Allowed to Fight in Wars?”, which presents
arguments for and against women in combat today. Your students
will then trace each author’s argument, using our handy activity
sheet. As a culminating activity, students will write their own
argument essays about women in combat—but from Deborah’s point
of view. Here’s why we love this activity: It combines several
skills demanded by the Common Core: building strong arguments
(W1), writing to task, purpose, and audience (W4), and acquiring
domain-specific vocabulary (L6)—t