Writing,Writing,Writing

Yes! We have been super busy writing. This year 2nd grade has a  BIG focus on writing. The new common core standards have really challenged teachers. We  write a good deal in our class but I have failed to always take time to go through each and every step of the writing process. So, this year we have slowed down and take at least a week at a time to complete a writing skill. We are currently working on a "Personal Narrative". The topic is "my favorite memory with my best friend". Personal Narratives are meant to pin point a specific event and give details regarding that event.

First, we read this personal narrative written by Patricia Polacco.

Next, I introduced the topic and shared a personal narrative that I wrote. I wanted to model the correct words to use includes I, Me, and My. I also wanted the students to notice the sequence and details "that Mrs. Busha put in her story." See the example below:

My Best Friend Memory

A Personal Narrative

Be Sure to Include:

1. The name of your Best friend.

2. Why they are your best friend.

3. Topic sentence: Favorite Memory

4. Give details (exactly what happened)

5. Sequence the story: (Use words like: First ,Next ,Then,  Last, Finally)

6. Use the words I, Me, My, We, and Us

My example narrative:

My best friend’s name is Anna Leigh. Anna Leigh is the same age as me. We have been friend for 10 years. She is my best friend because we can talk about anything. She is always there when I need her. My favorite memory with Anna Leigh, is the time we went parasailing.

We went on vacation to the Beach with Anna Leigh’s dad. We saw people “flying” through the sky. It looked so fun but kind of scary, too. First ,we walked down the beach to the “Parasail Hut”. Next, we found out how much money it would cost to go and we both had just enough money. Then, we got permission from our parents, and we were ready to “fly”. Next, we swam in the ocean out to a special boat. We climbed on the boat. Then, the workers helped us put on all of our safety gear. Finally, the started the engine and the boat began to move. Pretty soon we were doing it, we were “flying”!  It was awesome! That is my favorite memory with my best friend Anna Leigh. I am so thankful to have such a great friend.

Then, came "Brainstorming"....we used a web style graphic organizer this time. In the center bubble we wrote "my Best Friend________". Then they though of 4 fun memories that they have with that friend.

 From here, we began the planning phase.....I am currently in the middle of conferencing with each student about their "Plan". So, I will be back to share then finished "Narratives" later in the week!

Our story last week was, A Walk in the Desert. We used this Desert Turtle Book  to help recall information from the story.

I am very excited to see how our class develops and grows as writers this year!