When students write with purpose they are far more likely to be engaged, not to mention their written language development strengthens without even realizing it. We spend our day engaging the students in various writing activities with different purposes. We label our pictures, write lists, letters, a description of our work, make signs for structures we have built, and so much more.
A special friend has arrived in our class, her name is Ginger! Ginger is a very cute stuffed bear! We have learned that she has a favourite pass time which is writing letters. As a class we have written letters to Ginger and received responses. Now students have the opportunity to visit the letter writing area and write their own letters to Ginger. The expression on the students faces when they receive mail - a personalized letter back is just precious! Ginger's evenings must be very busy as the mailbox is full at the end of each day with letters asking questions and sharing information about hobbies, interests, wonders, personal experiences and so on.
We thank those of you who have embraced this opportunity and even taken the time at night to support your child with writing to Ginger. We hope that this opportunity will continue to help students develop a love of writing!
Just before the winter break Ginger took a trip to a warmer climate. The class received emails with pictures which continued to spark their writing enjoyment! Everyday we were asked "When is Ginger coming home?" We were able to link our discussions about animals in winter with Ginger, one student (E.Z.) concluded that "Ginger is a party bear". Bears are supposed to hibernate but Ginger clearly decided to migrate and keep her social life alive with her new friend Barry!!
This past week, Ginger returned to the cold. Her and Barry made an appearance in our class - students were overjoyed! Much love was shown and concern for their need to be warm. Many felt that they needed to make a den for Ginger and Barry to keep warm. We are excited to see where this will go in the coming weeks.
Purposeful writing can happen anywhere and anytime...maybe your child would like to write a letter to family members. How about a shopping list, wish list, a menu for a family dinner. Maybe write a birthday card or a card to someone to brighten their day? We would even love to receive a letter at school!!
