The Keys To Learning
Monday, February 24, 2014
Teaching and Learning Focus- Cafeteria Writing
Each 45 minute writing lesson begins with a connection, when new learning is connected with prior learning and/or real life experiences. Next the teacher teaches the writing skill and models for the students. Then the students are given an activity that actively engages them in practice of the writing skill - teachers monitor students' performance as they practice and confer with them. Finally, students share with a partner, collaborate with a small group of students, etc. At the end of the Cafeteria Writing session, students are reminded of their new learning and the expectation to use the new skill in their writing.
The writing strategy taught this past week was how to write a strong lead. We know that a strong lead will catch the reader's attention and make them want to read more.
The most exciting thing about cafeteria writing is watching 180+ students in one room engaged in writing all at the same time!!!
Great Leads…
1. Question Lead… Open with an interesting question that relates to the main idea.
Example: Have you ever wondered how you would survive if you found yourself alone in the wilderness?
2. Opinion… Open with your opinion about the topic. Let the reader know that it is your opinion right away.
Example: In my opinion, chocolate is the best candy choice to give as a gift on Valentine’s Day.
3. Tell When Lead… Create an Era or Time Period
Example: Many years ago, when computers and the internet did not exist, communication was a challenge for people in the United States.
4. Dialogue Lead… Conversation
Example: “You will never believe what I saw when I looked out of my window this morning!” exclaimed Jill.
5. Fascinating Fact Lead…Informational Writing
Example: Killer whales, also called orcas, can grow to be 23 to 32 feet long, almost as long as a bus.
6. Startling Lead!!! (like a Ticking Clock)…
Example: Tick-tock, tick-tock! I am watching the clock all night because I cannot wait until tomorrow!
7. What If...Lead (Imagine If...) – Example: What if or Imagine if computers had never been invented.
8. Using your Five Senses Lead…See, hear, taste, feel, smell… The air smelled of hot dogs and buttered popcorn. It was opening day of the Gwinnett Braves 2014 season, and the stadium was rocking!
Congratulations to our Reflections Winners!
In its more than 40-year history, the Reflections program has encouraged millions of students to explore their artistic talents. The program offers students the opportunity to create works of art for fun and recognition!
This year’s theme was “DREAM, BELIEVE, INSPIRE”.
Congratulations to the (13) thirteen Arcado Elementary students whose artistic creations placed in the school competition and receive Honorable Mentions at the Gwinnett Area 1 Council Level!! We are very proud of you!
A reception to honor these students will be Tuesday, February 25 7:30AM in the Media Center. Parents are invited to attend.
Literature:
First Place: Abigail Hart, “Believe, Dream, Inspire” – Intermediate Division
Second Place: Grace Liu, “Karate Girl: Spirits Rise” – Intermediate Division
Third Place: Devika Menon, “A Dream Teacher” – Intermediate Division
Visual Arts:
First Place: Karen Lin, “Art is Nature” – Primary Division
Second Place: Ryan Shu, “ Me and Dinosaur Kingdom” – Primary Division
First Place: Velda Wang, “I believe I can” – Intermediate Division
Second Place: Christy Li, “ Little Panda’s Dream” – Intermediate Division
Third Place: Kaytie Lin, “Discovering Something New” – Intermediate Division
Photography:
First Place: Heidi Whitten, “Blooming Hibiscus” – Intermediate Division
Second Place: Madeline Bridges, “I Believe” – Intermediate Division
Third Place: Sarah Frost, “Nature’s Work” – Intermediate Division
Musical Composition:
First Place: Grace Chiu, “Twilight” – Primary Division
First Place: Allen Chiu, “When Lightning Strikes” – Intermediate Division