I hope everyone had a great long weekend! Our weather could have been more cooperative, but...
Our personal narrative focus today was on a memorable moment with someone who taught you a lesson about life, yourself, or someone else. We made a heart map and a three column chart to help map out ideas. This is probably the most emotional piece of the narrative writing, and I truly, truly appreciate the students who were willing to share difficult topics. It's not easy to put yourself out there. I also appreciate their classmates who listened with respect and sympathy. As we discussed, writers are at their best when they put themselves back in the moment..."No tears for the writer, no tears for the reader" (Robert Frost). If you don't feel it, neither will your reader. The story doesn't have to be sad (think broken cast-iron lawn furniture), but the person did have to teach you something. We're moving beyond, "The day I learned to Ride a Bike" ok?
H/W: Write TWO pages (stronger and longer) about the moment you learned a life lesson, and the person who taught you the lesson. SHOW by referring to that moment in time by describing your 5 senses. Don't TELL "I was overjoyed," really SHOW what "overjoyed" looks and feels like. Remember dialogue makes your writing authentic and puts the reader right there.
** On Thurs. you will be getting your first writing grade. I will be checking for fluency...this means I will be checking for
- three pieces of writing (a moment in time; a memorable place; a person who taught you a life lesson)
- Your writing should be the required lengths ( a full page; one and a half pages; two pages
If you are thinking you might need to get caught up, don't delay! I am always here before and after school if you need a quiet place to work or if you need help.
Thanks! See you tomorrow.
