For their last writing unit, the 3rd graders worked on memoirs involving experiences with water. Students worked their way through the writing process (planning, rough draft, revision, editing, final draft). Students were each given a planning packet to help break down the prewriting process: brainstorm ideas, list out the sequence of their memory, create sensory images, and document the message they learned from their experience. After completing the packets, it was time for the students to write their rough drafts. During this time, we focused on expanding on details to add more information for our reader and to help our stories to make sense. After completing the rough drafts, students worked with Mr. Burkhart to revise and edit their work.
Finally, it was time for the final drafts. After using their best handwriting to write their stories on the final draft paper, Ms. Girdwood stepped in to help make the final drafts truly special. During special collaboration times, students were able to create watercolor covers for their stories. Once these covers were done, the students glued their final draft papers to card stock and their cover illustrations to the front. Ms. Girdwood also helped them to sew the bindings. With these amazing final drafts in hand before break, we had a special celebration in which each student had the opportunity to sit in the "Author's Chair" and share their stories with the rest of the class. It was a great for the students to get the practice of reading and speaking in front of a group, and it was great to see how proud they were of all their hard work.