Tips from the Field:

In order to personalize the problem context, consider using the name of the children’s hospital in your geographic area. Additionally, select four paintings that resonate with the student learners you have in front of you. Launching the problem scenario with a brief power point can further authenticate the experience for students, making them actually believe they are legitimate participants in the selection of a painting for the waiting area.

Time may not permit for students produce both a draft and final copy of this assignment. Work in small groups can be conceived of as the drafting stage, and the completion of a RAFT as the final product.

Students can create their own spreadsheets, and track their progress from the Argument Anticipation Guide to the Argument Reaction Guide.  This way, they can assume more responsibility for their own learning and growth over the course of the unit. It also begins to help them see how maintaining data provides evidence strong of growth over time.