Writing Like Scientists

Hi friends! For more information on this alternative writing unit, Looking Closely: Observing, Listing, and Labeling Like Scientists, check out the TCRWP's Units of Study for Writing "If...Then... Curriculum" book.

We practiced observing outside of the classroom at the park.

We can also visit other places in the neighborhood, gardens, or zoos to make observations.

We made observations in the classroom:

Students might also observe and write about...

rocks, shells, class pets, plants, nuts, twigs, pine cones, acorns, fall fruits and vegetables (apples, pumpkins, gourds, etc)

What else?

:)

Provide students with tools that will help them to talk and write about their observations...

Our writing folders have clear pockets on the outside...

FRONT of folder: "Strategies to Habits" card with reminders we gave the student during conferences or small group work.

We like to make sure the reminders we give them for their "Strategies to Habits" card are written/drawn with students, or that they match the charts used in minilessons around the classroom. The mini versions of the charts are reused and stored in folders for future use:

BACK of folder: Words that they can use to help them write. We put the words and Post-its so students can move them around to help them form parts of sentences.

We create differentiated checklists that match pictures and charts with which they're familiar.

Here's one:

Published work!

Happy writing!

Chrissa & Stef

;)