Using the finalized outline, Joshua began drafting his research paper during today's session. After I reviewed his introductory paragraphs, we discussed where and how to briefly reference in the introduction views opposing the thesis . We further noted where to include a definitional section .

We first reviewed Joshua's final outline for his research paper. I provided suggestions to include in his thesis statement and suggestions to clarify issues surrounding the controversy of technology use in the classroom. Joshua's final revised outline was very well done and also the proper length . Based on some additional research, Joshua then completed additional source cards using MLA format which we discussed and reviewed. Last, we discussed how to approach the drafting of the paper using the note cards and the completed outline.

Today's lesson focused on the next stage of the research project-preparation for composing the first draft. We reviewed Joshua's formal outline to ensure he had a clear thesis and full topic sentences describing each "claim" section of the paper. We next explored how to use the outline as an organizational tool in conjunction with the note cards. I provided guidance by suggesting he create definitions in his paper for generic terms such as "internet usage" and that he tie his claims more directly to his thesis i.e. impacts of the internet on young people and students. Last, Joshua completed the final section of the outline -solutions to the issue raised by the paper.

Joshua took an AP exam during today's session.

Today's lesson focused on how to prepare a formal outline for a research paper. I placed a general outline form on the board: Background, Controversies, Thesis statement , Evidence, and Solutions. I then had Joshua arrange his note cards following the above organization. Subsequently, Joshua began drafting the formal outline using full sentences to describe the background and controversies surrounding his topic. Critically, we next examined and discussed the proposed thesis making sure it was narrow enough to form a foundation for the research paper. Per my suggestions, Joshua formulated a thesis that argues that internet and social media use are addictive and damaging and therefore their use should be curtailed for young people, especially in schools. Joshua also drafted the evidence portion of the outline using topic sentences . Last, we discussed posing a solution in the conclusion of the paper.

Joshua continued studying his research material and composing note cards during today's session. We discussed how to organize the note cards to facilitate creating a formal outline during tomorrow's session. I further began reviewing his note cards to monitor his progress .The research project is progressing on schedule.

As Joshua continues his research and note taking, we examined how to narrow his focus in order to develop a more workable thesis. In this regard, I directed Joshua to a number of articles from the New York Times arguing against the use of technology in education.He is doing very well in his research analysis and in narrowing the topic. Joshua then continued to examine internet articles exploring how internet use causes changes in brain function and brain dimension.

During today's session, Joshua continued reading multiple research sources and making note cards. We discussed the progress of the assigned research plan noting our goal of completing reading the material this week and working on preparing a formal outline in class on Friday.Subsequently, we will work on preparing a first draft for teacher comment.

We reviewed this week's research task: completing note cards from sources culminating in the preparation of an outline. I provided instruction on formulating an outline from the note cards including creating the operative thesis statement. Joshua then continued reading his research materials and making note cards.

During the first segment, I provided instruction on note taking from sources. I first focused on finding background information and the controversies on the issue for the introduction . We discussed how the thesis will also flow from the stated controversies and be included in the introduction. Next, we discussed possible solutions referenced in the material as this information will assist in forming a conclusion. In terms of the body of the paper, the evidence, we reviewed the paper's requirements for at least 4 short quotes and 2 longer quotes. Further, I reminded Joshua to include source reference and page numbers on his note cards . Joshua then read through some of his research material and made note cards per class instruction.