Cheezits

Use simple items (Cheezits) to continue teaching writing.

My lesson looked like this.

Materials:

• 13-15 alphabet Cheezits (Walmart)
• a napkin for each student
• ziploc  bag for each student (in case this takes more than one lesson)
• template
• pencil

Lesson:

• Today we will be using alphabet cookies to help us to write.
• There are a few rules that need to be in place before we begin.
• First, if we want to use alphabet Cheezits everyone must remember that they can not be eaten until the lesson is over.  
• To begin with, let's look at our Cheezits.  How can we use them?  What ideas do you have for things to do with them besides eating them?

                       Steps to Success
(Let kids come up with ideas.  They might include: build, create, and alphabetize)

1. Write the ideas on the board and begin experimenting with ideas one at a time.
2. As you complete a task, talk, share, and discuss students ideas and creations.
3. After you have finished one concept (such as building) continue on until you have completed all concepts discussed.  Use your cell phone to take pictures as you go along.
4. After completing the tasks, allow students to eat the Cheezits (or use them for another lesson the following day)
5. Take out the templates (Create a large one on chart paper, the white board, or other resource) and begin by filling in the detail pieces, transition words, and then move to completing the topic sentence and concluding sentence.
6. Discuss ideas for explaining the details.  Create a list of words which can be used to explain and give examples.
7. Model sharing of your outlines. Have students share with partners.
8. Hand out lined paper.
9. Remind them of BFF rule of their template and paper. Do the Writing Alert Chant.
10. Begin the writing process. Circulate to assist and support writers.
11. Remind them to reread their sentences, share with a buddy, and come up with a catchy title.
12. Grab two pieces of white paper, tape down the middle. Place template on the back, writing inside, and have students illustrate the page facing the writing.  The front cover will serve as their title.  
13. Once writing is complete, share select ones on a daily basis. (Generally, I pick three or four to read right after lunch)

Enjoy!