This lesson plan introduces students to the “Do What” Writing Prompt Analysis Strategy, a structured method to help them better understand and respond to writing prompts. Over the course of a 50-minute session, students learn to carefully dissect prompts by identifying action verbs (“Do”), the subject or task (“What”), and any additional details. The lesson begins with teacher modeling, then moves into guided practice through a Prompt Dissection Challenge, where students highlight and analyze sample prompts in pairs. Students then apply the strategy independently by analyzing a prompt, planning their response, and outlining their writing steps. The lesson wraps up with class reflection and discussion on the importance of following prompt requirements. Assessment is based on the quality of the completed analysis worksheets, and homework extends the practice to prompts from other classes or online. Differentiation strategies are built in to support varying student needs, and key takeaways emphasize that strong prompt analysis leads to focused, effective writing.
