Looking for ways to help your child branch out in their literacy skills, while they're home?
Try putting the kids in charge :) This is a multi-step, fun project that could be broken down over several days :) They will learn about characters, setting, adding details, writing down information, making choices about writing, and compiling notes into a "report." All while having fun ....... :)
Step1:
Get out some art materials and design a character (animal or person) to write about. (They may be able to do this alone, or need help with outlines or models, depending on their age and/or ability. Sometimes just drawing a simple outline with shapes will help them get started...)
I picked a mouse for my character (and he has a lizard friend!) ... maybe you will choose a bear, a person, a snake, or something else. Look at books to get ideas, if you need to. Use colors and add details to make your character super cool! Definitely come up with a name for your character! When you're done, cut your figure out.
Step 2:
Design your character's "house." Find a small box or envelope (bigger than your character) and draw on the outside, making it into the type of place that your character would live in. Add pictures of accessories and cut them out to tuck them in, if needed/wanted.
Step 3:
Find some writing paper - computer paper, paper from a notebook, whatever you decide on will be great! Fold it or cut it into smaller pieces - either quarters or strips. I cut mine into strips so I could write across and then fold it up later to fit in my "house."
Step 4:
Decide on a list of questions that you want to answer about your character. Think about what your character looks like, what their house looks like, what his/her family is like, what their favorite color is, what they like to eat, play with, etc. If you need help, ask a bigger person to write them down.
Step 5:
Take one question at a time and write about your character. When all questions are answered, ask some more questions and write some more answers :) It could be as simple as "Snakey has no feet and is green," or much more detail, if you're older. Small friends can do this with a big friend.
Step 6:
Write an introduction, as if you were introducing your character to a friend. Line up all your writing pieces and decide which piece of information should go first, next, last. Put it all together into a book about your character. Staple or tape together, or rewrite if needed.
Step 7:
Make a cover and have an author's reading with the family - sit in a special chair and read aloud. Consider recording it on audio or video and sharing :)
So, you have your character forever now ...
maybe they'll take some adventures next ... !
maybe they'll take some adventures next ... !
Have fun!
