It was a busy week for 4th grade, with field trips, special visitors, and a no-school day due to conferences tomorrow. But I’m glad I got to join them in the classroom this morning for the last writing session of the week. Their teacher gave them strategies to take their issue or idea and push their thinking a bit by coming up with times they’ve “felt that way” or comparing that issue to other ideas.
I hesitated with making this about my own “grown-up” kind of writing, but kids always want to know what teachers are writing about, so I chose a topic that fits all ages. This is what I came up with:
My big issue/idea: Disagreeing with friends is hard.
| Times I’ve “felt that way” | It’s like… |
| Once, I disagreed with a friend and colleague on class schedules. | I sometimes feel lonely because friends often walk away if you choose your way. |
| Once, a friend and I had many disagreements when planning a dinner party. | It can be confusing because it makes me doubt what I think. |
| Once, my friend and I disagreed on whether to walk or drive to a place while on vacation. | It can be nerve-racking to share your opinion when you know your friend will disagree. |
I wish I had more time to stay in the classroom and write a few entries based on that exercise, but today, I had a packed schedule. I look forward to returning on Monday!
Start with a Story 