Objectives: To create a fully elaborated main event for a narrative.
Materials: Chart paper, larger markers, writing paper and pencils,
Neem The Half-Boy
by Idries Shah.
Procedure: 1. After reading aloud Shah’s book, revisit the pages again focusing more intently on the architecture of the buildings, the dress of the people, the view Neem had from the magic carpet. Elicit ‘I wonder’ responses to the idea of what it would be like to ride on a magic carpet like Neem did.
2. Tell the class they will be writing about an adventure they had while taking a magic carpet ride. Divide a piece of chart paper in to 4 sections labeled: exclamation, observations, slow motion actions and thoughts/feelings. As a whole group have students offer their ideas as you chart them.
3. Tell the students you will be modeling the writing of a main event with their help. The paragraph might being with a exclamation like: “I couldn’t believe I was actually up in the sky riding on a magic carpet!”
4. With the students’ assistance, write the main event on chart paper using a balance of action, description and dialogue. Keep this writing on display.
5. As students prepare to write their own versions, provide them with a chart of the following questions:
How did you feel as you were lifted into the sky?
What did you hold on to?
How did the carpet move?
Where was it heading?
Were you up very high?
What did you see above and below?
Did you exclaim anything as you rode along?
Did anyone notice you?
What were some of the interesting sights and sounds?
6. As students write, circulate among them and offer them the opportunity to share portions of their story with the class. Also, have them read their first drafts to a partner who can offer their response and suggestions.
(Adapted from a lesson in
Easy Art Activities that Spark Super Writing
by
Dea Paoletta Auray and Barbara Mariconda).
