RSST Writing Prompt: Making a Difference

RSST Writing Prompt: "Making a Difference

RSST (Read, Summarize, Synthesize, and Theorize) writing prompt

Read: You are writing a 3-4 paragraph Essay

Begin by reading the nonfiction short story "The Day We Planted Hope" and the poem "Little Drops of Kindness." Pay close attention to how individuals' actions in the story and poem contribute to positive changes in their communities.

​Summarize: Inside your notebook
Write a brief summary of both the story and the poem. Your summary should include the main characters, the actions they took to make a difference, and the outcomes of their actions.

​Synthesize Writing instructions.
Combine the ideas from the story and the poem to answer the following question: How do small actions lead to big changes? Use examples from both readings to support your answer and the video. Think about how the characters' actions, though small at first, created a ripple effect in their communities.

​Nonfiction Short Story:

"The Day We Planted Hope" In a small town where the streets were more gray than green, Mia and her friends noticed something missing—trees. The town had forgotten the beauty of nature amidst its busy life. Mia had an idea. "What if we could bring the green back?" she wondered aloud. With the help of her science teacher, Mrs. Green, Mia learned about the importance of trees for the environment and people's well-being. Inspired, she decided to start a community garden project. She faced many challenges, including finding a suitable place, gathering resources, and convincing others to join her cause. Despite the hurdles, Mia's determination was as sturdy as an oak. She presented her idea to the town council, explaining how trees would not only beautify the town but also improve air quality and provide a habitat for wildlife. Her passion was infectious, and slowly, support for her project grew. The day finally came when the community gathered to plant the first trees. Each sapling was a promise for a greener future. Mia looked around at the smiling faces, dirty hands, and the small green shoots peeking out from the soil. She realized that change was possible, one tree at a time. "The Day We Planted Hope" wasn't just about planting trees; it was about planting ideas, dreams, and the belief that even kids could make a big difference.

​Poem:
"Little Drops of Kindness" In a world that's big and wide,
With endless places to hide, I
t's the little drops of kindness that shine,
Making dark corners brightly align.

A smile, a hug, a helping hand,
Small gestures that don't demand,
Spread like ripples across a pond,
Creating bonds that go beyond.

So, be a drop of kindness,
let it flow,
And watch a garden from those droplets grow.

For every act, no matter how small,
Can lift someone up when they fall. In this journey,
we're all part,
Of a masterpiece,
a work of heart. Remember,
it's the little drops of kindness that start,
The change we wish to see impart.

​Theorize: Based on what you've read and synthesized, theorize about a change Garrett Morgan can make in his own community. What small action did Garrett Morgan take to make a positive impact? Imagine the potential outcomes of his action. Describe his idea and how it grew into a bigger change, similar to the examples in the story and poem.


I created an outline for you. The essay should be completed in your writer's notebook. Next, type inside the word. Finally, attach it in assignments on TEAMS

​Writing Outline for a Four-Paragraph Essay Paragraph 1:
Introduction Topic Sentence: Introduce the main topic of your essay in one sentence.

Example: "Making a difference in the community is something everyone can do, big or small."

Explanation: Add a sentence or two to explain your topic further or why it's important. Example: "Every action counts....

Thesis Statement: End with a sentence that states the main point or argument you will make in your essay. Example: "This essay will explore how...

​Paragraph 2: Summary of the Story and Poem

Transition/Topic Sentence: Begin with a sentence that transitions from the introduction to your summary.

Example: "The story 'The Day We Planted Hope' and the poem 'Little Drops of Kindness' both illustrate....

Summary of the Story: Summarize the main events or actions in the story that show making a difference. Example: "In 'The Day We Planted Hope,'.........,

Summary of the Poem: Summarize the main message of the poem related to making a difference. Example: "Similarly, 'Little Drops of Kindness'.......

​Paragraph 3: Synthesis of Ideas

Transition/Topic Sentence: Start with a sentence that introduces how you will combine the ideas from the story and poem.

Example: "Both the story and the poem share a common theme.........

Synthesis of Ideas: Explain how the story and poem together support your thesis.


Personal Reflection: Reflect on how the themes relate to Garrett Morgan's life or society. Example: "Seeing the characters take action........

Type: Word

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