Meaningful Writing

How it all began

Pokemon cards have been an interest of many students in our class, our students want to see them, hold them, draw them and talk about them.

Process

The light table has been in our classroom for a while now, we were using it to make patterns was rocks, gems, tiles and other materials.  A student wanted to draw a pokemon, but was frustrated with trying and it not "looking right".  The educator suggested using the light table to trace it.  Together they found an image of a pokemon on the computer and printed it out.  The educator brought it over to the light table and the student started tracing.  Other students saw this and wanted other images. 

The educator suggested to the students that they write a note listing all the names of the Pokemon and give it to the educator so it can be done when no one was using the computer.

"Ms. Wu  Please find Samurott, Onex, Oshawott, Pidgey for me. "

After students trace the Pokemon, we ask them to add details which include colouring, background and a sentence about what is happening in the picture.

Reflection

 Writing is something that we do all the time as adults and we don't usually consider it work, yet so often when we think of children learning how to write, they are given worksheets that have letters to trace.  From  my experience tracing random letters is boring and tedious.  Wouldn't it make more sense if writing was meaningful?   Aren't students still learning letters while they convey a message that has a purpose and a response.  When I receive a request from a student, I typically find time the same day to ensure that the students know how important and powerful their ideas and words can be. 

Meaningful Writing at Home:

** Have your child write a few things they may want to buy from the grocery store, remind them of healthy options as well as treats.

** Write a letter to a friend and mail it.  Spend some time and help your child sound out some of the words or share the pen (your child writes some and you write some of their ideas).

** Write Ms. Wu a delicious cookie / brownie / muffin recipe, I'm always looking for new ones to try.