First graders learn that writers describe the 5 senses in their texts. When we read, we experience what the author wants us to SEE, HEAR, SMELL, TASTE and TOUCH! We practice writing with our senses since we are authors, too!
First grade writers develop stories that are based on SMALL MOMENTS. (Think of a seed from a watermelon instead of a whole slice.) By focusing on the most interesting or important moment of an event, authors can include the character's movements and feelings to bring the story alive for the reader!
We read aloud the Caldecott award winner, Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes as our MENTOR TEXT. (When we read it, we could act out the movements and feelings that the kitten had when it tried to get the bowl of milk.)
We read aloud the Caldecott award winner, Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes as our MENTOR TEXT. (When we read it, we could act out the movements and feelings that the kitten had when it tried to get the bowl of milk.)
All work below here is from the '15-'16 school year.
First Graders are experts at many things. Here are some of their "How-to" writings that teach us a skill or activity.
First graders know stories have a beginning, middle and end.
First Graders spent the week of October 19-23, 2015 discussing KINDNESS in writing class. We learned parts of a letter and wrote kind letters to Mrs. Davidson (our music teacher) or Mr. Mike (our custodian), both who have been away from school recovering from foot surgery.
Here's an example of what Mrs. Davidson wrote back!
Dear Mrs. Price's Students,
Thank you so much for the letters you wrote me while in Mrs. Withrow's class. I have read each one of them and thought about you while reading them. I am feeling much better after my surgery and will be back with you very soon.
I talk with Ms. Godwin every day and make sure you all are doing your best. Keep singing and acting like AWESOME Morgan students! You are doing a wonderful job for her and that makes me feel even better! I love each of you and miss you greatly! I will see you very soon!
Love,
Mrs. Davidson
Thank you so much for the letters you wrote me while in Mrs. Withrow's class. I have read each one of them and thought about you while reading them. I am feeling much better after my surgery and will be back with you very soon.
I talk with Ms. Godwin every day and make sure you all are doing your best. Keep singing and acting like AWESOME Morgan students! You are doing a wonderful job for her and that makes me feel even better! I love each of you and miss you greatly! I will see you very soon!
Love,
Mrs. Davidson