Objectives Writing Writing narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective techniques, descriptive details and clear event sequences Using narrative techniques, such as dialogue, description and pacing, to develop experiences and events or show the responses of characters to situations Using concrete words, phrases and sensory details to convey experiences and events precisely Materials Needed Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett Chart paper or whiteboard Pre-writing graphic organizer Umbrella book reproducible Pencils Crayons or markers Stapler Introduction Read Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs aloud.
Objectives CCSS Language L.4.5.A: Explain the meaning of simple similes and metaphors (e.g., as pretty as a picture) in context. L.5.5.A: Interpret figurative language, including similes and metaphors, in context. Materials Needed Stubborn as a Mule and Other Silly Similes by Nancy Loewen (or another book that contains a variety of similes) Whiteboard or chart paper Make Your Own Simile reproducible Super Similes instruction page and reproducible Super Similes answer key Preparation Print a copy of the Make Your Own Simile reproducible and Super Similes instruction page and reproducible for each student. Introduction Read aloud Stubborn as a Mule and Other Silly Similes by Nancy Loewen (or another book with a variety of similes).
Objectives Reading: Literature Reading and comprehending grade-appropriate literature, including stories, dramas, and poetry Writing Writing an acrostic poem Materials Needed Animal Acrostics by David Hummon or Autumn: An Alphabet Acrostic by Steven Schnur My Winter Acrostic template Winter Acrostic Organizer template Dark-blue construction paper - 9" x 12" Crayons or colored pencils Pencil Chalk or write & wipe marker Chalkboard or write & wipe board Introduction Hold up the book Animal Acrostics by David Hummon or Autumn: An Alphabet Acrostic by Steven Schnur. Then explain that the first letter of each line in an acrostic poem spells out a “topic” word that ties all the lines of the poem together. (It’s helpful to demonstrate the concept on a chalkboard or write & wipe board.) Read a few examples from the book and show students how acrostic poems are arranged on a page. (You may want to reproduce one on the board or a large poster so students can refer to it throughout the lesson.)
Objectives Students will analyze the characters and events in The Lorax by Dr. Seuss, drawing comparisons between the fictitious environment and our own environment. Students will discuss ways to positively impact the environment. Materials Needed The Lorax by Dr. Seuss Small-Group Discussion Questions Colored pencils, pens or markers Introduction Discuss the meaning of Earth Day, and introduce the book to students. Explain that aside from being an enjoyable children’s story, The Lorax is a metaphor to make us think about the world around us and the impact we have on our environment. Invite students to listen carefully to the story and see if they can draw comparisons between the characters and events in the story and our own planet.
Objectives Students will listen to an oral reading about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Students will identify key words that describe his work and values. Students will create their own poems that promote peace in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. Materials Needed Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport Chart paper or chalkboard Markers or chalk Martin Luther King Jr. poem Peace Poem template Introduction Show students the picture of Martin Luther King Jr. on the front cover of the book and ask them to identify him. Explain that Dr. King’s birthday is celebrated as a national holiday in the United States to honor him and his contribution to society. Read aloud Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport.
