I absolutely loved all of the sensory elements in Deb's lesson. Talk about motivation! If they could actually taste what early settlers tasted (and they can do it in their own backyards) imagine what literary imagery would come up in their writing. They (whoever "they" is) say that you write what you know. No wonder my kids only write about their dogs and their little brothers. Teaching is expanding thinking and experiences, then applying new skills to the world around them.
On another note, was the cemetery within walking distance of your school? In our district we are no longer allowed to go on field trips that require buses. Luckily my school in is town, but there are only so many places you can walk with a big group of kids. What do other people for creative, close to home field experiences?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Anna, That cemetery is within walking distance - most of the plant stuff came from around our building - he could have stayed there all day and taught us about what I thought were just weeds - but you have lots of stuff between you and a walk - railroad tracks, buildings, businesses, houses, parks -
ReplyDeleteDeb, I was amazed at how much control of the unit you gave to the kids without losing sight of what you ultimately wanted. Numerous times you made statements to the effect, "I was going to...but the kids said...."
ReplyDeleteThis must have had a direct effect on the units success.
Finally, I want to research and write some historical fiction.
Great job!
Anna, you are in Gallipolis, a city rich in history. The original french settlers were the victims of a scheme that led them to Ohio and stranded them. It was a part of the underground railroad and a cultural center for the area at one time. There is a museum
ReplyDeleteand an art guild right there in town.
Those are great resources in Gallipolis, but there are so many kids who have never been out of the county. My grade level teachers and I are trying to think of more ways to engage students in what might not be immediately familiar too.
ReplyDeleteTouching the ommunity is somewhat of a challenge when your school is out further than a school walk. Bus trips are now impossible to arrange.
ReplyDeleteWe have to assume position of creative director and come from our brainstorming with something we can use to get the kids out in the community to seek their past.
Of course elder relatives are a start for individuals, but trips with students are something else! Suggestions?