Writing poetry

Lead students to brainstorm a list of spring activities. Then guide each child to choose one activity as the topic of his poem. Next, have the child write a list of action verbs that relate to his topic. To write his poem, direct the child to write his topic on the first line of his paper. On each of the next four lines, have the child refer to his verb list as he writes a phrase that begins with an action verb and tells about his activity. On the last line, have him wrap up his poem by writing an exclamatory statement about his topic. Have the child illustrate his work; then bind the completed poems into a book and display it in the class library.

EVERYBODY NEEDS ONE

Persuasive writing

Students set the stage for this cooperative activity by answering the question, "What could this be?" Give each small group of students an unusual or unfamiliar object, such as a kitchen or garden gadget. Then have the group make a three-column chart and label each column as shown. Direct the group to investigate its object and work together to complete each column of the chart. Next, have each group member use the completed chart as a resource as he writes a paragraph that describes the possible benefits of the object and convinces others that they need it. Invite each child to read aloud his final paragraph.

TIMELY PROMPTS

Journal writing

• Pretend that you are an earthworm. Describe what you do during the day.
• If you were an earthworm, would you rather live in someone's yard or in the forest? Explain your choice.
• Write a letter to an earthworm, telling how you think it helps your community.