Writing First Drafts (Grades 3-6)
It's time to start writing.
Teach students to write an expressive essay.
OBJECTIVE
Students will write an expressive essay.
MATERIALS
- Pen or pencil
- Paper
REPRODUCIBLES
- Outlining Essays (Grades 3-6) Student Reproducible (PDF)
- Writing First Drafts (Grades 3-6) Student Reproducible (PDF)
DIRECTIONS
1. Ask students to recall their "outlines" from Lesson 1. Tell them that today they will write a first draft of their essays.
2. Distribute Writing First Drafts (Grades 3-6) Student Reproducible (PDF).
3. Give students time to complete their essay drafts. Tell them to first focus on getting their thoughts down on paper. If they get stuck, tell them to close their eyes and concentrate on their main idea. What emotions do they feel? What colors are associated with their feelings? What memories stand out the most? They may jot down notes to use in their essays. Tell students to refer to their outlines as they write.
4. Once the students have finished their essay drafts, allow time for revision. Have students complete their essays by adding any missing details and omitting unnecessary ones. Have them replace words or sentences that could be improved. In addition, have them correct any errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
LESSON EXTENSION
Marker Tips: Have students make their stories come to life through colorful illustrations by creating a visual prop to support their essay. Students may also make a drawing that captures their emotions and/or memories.
Photos, top to bottom: © Image 100/Getty Images; © Photodisc/Getty Images.
