Write On!
Need some ideas for those last few days of school? Writing prompts have been my best friend!
I gave my students the writing prompt: “_[insert name]___ lived in a castle in a far away land.” Students chose their main character’s name and copied down this sentence. They then added one more sentence. At the sound of a bell, students swapped papers in a clockwise motion, read what was written on the paper, and added an additional sentence. This cycle repeated itself until all students had written on each of their classmate’s papers. I think next time I will have each student utilize a different color pen/pencil to create a strong visual of the collaborative effort.
When students received their original writing piece back they had a howling good time rereading their silly stories. One student remarked, “I started out with a prince in a castle and ended up with leprechauns! How’d that happen?” haha You’re right, how did that happen? That is the fun of it! (Of course, I liked the one about me the most!)
I had to apologize to my surrounding teachers for the noise level as students read what other students wrote and added on their own wacky twist of a sentence. Sharing each other’s stories afterwards had our stomach’s hurting! What a fun, creative way to spend our last days together.
What is your favorite end of the year activity? If you tried this one, tell me how it went!
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.