This week we are finalizing compare and contrast paragraphs about either characters or settings in the novel Bridge to Terabithia. We began by using a Venn diagram to begin to understand and show the similarities and differences. Then the children used an on-line program to transform these ideas into phrases and sentences. Mini lessons about writing topic sentences (occasion/position statements) and effectively using transition words followed. Finally, each child wrote rough drafts, revised and edited them, and wrote a final copy. Student samples: Venn diagrams (prewriting and planning): Example 1 Example 2 Writing process (drafts and final copy) Example 1 Example 2 This project is part of a larger unit in which we read and discussed this book as a whole class novel; held small literature groups, investigated vocabulary; illustrated the main settings, etc. Next week, Rebecca and I will lead discussion and writing groups to explore deeper questions like: 1) Which characters in Bridge to Terabithia defy gender stereotypes? Which examples in our own lives do we see the same thing? Where do gender stereotypes come from? 2) In what ways do the main characters in Bridge to Terabithia feel "trapped" because of their age? Do you ever feel that way? How can young people find their own identities or freedom? 3) The main character, Jess, changes and matures in many ways. How are you changing and moving from childhood to adulthood? What "bridge" are you crossing or which ones do you expect to cross in the next few years? All of the 4/5 classrooms are exploring this genre of writing and I extend gratitude to my team mates for some of their lessons and planning of the activities. Comments are closed.
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