Author Study
How it works:
Students, in cooperative learning
groups, read books written by Laura Numeroff and analyze the author's style
with the use of a semantic web. They practice word processing skills using
Write On Plus, Writing With Picture Books. They follow a sequence map to
create a story using the author's style that they have studied. The story is
illustrated and published as a book, or presented as a computer slide show.
Standards:
1. Read and comprehend at least four books on the same subject, or by the
same author, or in the same genre.
2. Read aloud fluently.
3. Produce a response to literature.
4. Produce a narrative account.
5. Participate in group meetings.
6. Prepare and deliver a presentation.
7. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the rules of the English language in
written and oral work.
8. Analyze and subsequently revise work to improve its clarity and
effectiveness.
9. Produce work in at least one genre that follows the conventions of the
genre.
What
you need:
Books: If You Give A Mouse A
Cookie, If You Give A Pig A Pancake, by Laura Numeroff
Write On Plus, Writing With Picture Books, by
Sunburst
Kidpix, by Broderbund
Student Writing Center, by Learning Company or
AppleWorks, by Claris or Microsoft Works
Overall
value:
This unit can be done in
cooperative learning groups for grades 2-4. Students should have some
experience entering text on a computer and using a drawing and painting
application. Students develop a sense of pride and accomplishment at being
able to produce a finished book or slide show to present. They also develop
respect for others, and the ability to work as part of a group. Students take
a step further in reaching English Language Arts Standards, particularly in
developing the concept that authors use different styles of writing. This unit
will help instill in children a love for literature and writing.
Tips
for teachers:
In forming cooperative learning groups,
roles such as reader, secretary, graphic
artist, information processor, publisher, and presenter can be assigned. The
reader reads the book to the group; the secretary records group responses;
the information processor enters the story the group will create on the
computer; the graphic artist illustrates
the story; the publisher will bind the pages of the story into book form
or prepare story board for the slide show; and the presenter shares the
finished product with the whole class. |
Carolyn Hornik has been a New York City public school teacher for twenty five years (12 years as a classroom teacher in third, fourth, and fifth grades and 13 years as a technology coordinator.)
She teaches in-service courses for the New York City Board of Education After School Professional Development Program and on-line courses for new teachers through
Teachers Network.
Chornik@aol.com
Estimated Class Periods To Complete: 10
or more
Subject: English, Social Studies
Beginning Grade Level: 4
Ending Grade Level: 8
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