The first purpose will be to explain "how to" to do something. For this part of the unit, it would be beneficial for your child to brainstorm with an adult a list of things they are good at and can confidently explain in about three steps. "How to" writing will begin with an introductory sentence (e.g. Baking cookies is not only easy, it's fun!). The introductory sentence will be followed by sentences beginning with "time order words" (e.g. first, next, last, finally, etc.). Each step of the instructions will be accompanied by a simple plan/illustration/diagram of that particular step. Illustrations will be clarified by the use of writing features such as captions and labels. The "time order" sentences will be followed by a sentence of closure (e.g. Soon you will smell the delicious aroma of homemade cookies).
The second purpose of informative writing will be to "tell all about" a particular topic. For this part of the unit, it would be beneficial for your child to brainstorm with an adult a list of things they are interested in or know a good deal about. This type of writing will begin with a general statement (introduction) about the topic (e.g. Elephants are interesting animals). Subsequent sentences will support the general statement made about the topic. Subsequent information should be presented in an organized fashion or by subtopics. In this way, the informational writing could be indexed with a table of contents or an outline:
Asian Elephants (Title)
- Introduction
- Subtopic: Physical description
- Detail: size
- Detail: weight
- Detail: lifespan
- Subtopic: Habitat and diet
- Subtopic: Behavior
- Conclusion
Subtopics will be presented with a plan/diagram/illustration to clarify each main idea (or if necessary, a detail).
No comments:
Post a Comment