Sea Animal Project Update
10/23/09 Update
Students have completed most of their research, but some still have some loose ends to tie up.
We have had mini-lessons and practice thinking about different aspects of the story. We started by learning about the importance of having a problem to drive the plot. In the story, “The Three Little Pigs” the problem was how to keep safe from the wolf. In our sea stories, the problem should relate to what was found out about the animal. For example, a barnacle may be afraid of its predator, the dog whelk. Students brainstormed ideas for problems that could be central to their stories and were encouraged to choose one.
We discussed setting and how to choose words and phrases that help the reader visualize the setting. In this phase we found out that some students find out more about their animal’s habitat.
Over the last couple of days we have discussed characters. What chtaracters will be important in your story? What will be their characteristics be? Students identified some important characteristics to think about including physical characteristics, relationships between characters, and personality.
Next week, students will plan out their plot so they will be ready to start writing their first drafts.
October 24th, 2009 at 6:56 am
Yes, Colin talked about it. He told me he is doing the jellyfish. He likes going to the computer lab to do the project. Looking at the blog allows me to ask Colin questions. Thanks Lisa
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