Personal Narrative Assignment

We are currently doing personal narratives in our writing unit. This is one of my favorite units because it allows the children to write about events that have happened in their life. They seem to love sharing about themselves and it is a great way to help the kids to know each other just a little bit more.

I started the unit by giving them one prompt a day, such as "You'll never believe it but once I...." or "Once when I was ____ grade, I ....." Then, I had them free write for about 10 minutes. This last Monday, I had them pick their favorite one and add more detail to it. In preparation for the editing process, I had them learn about subjects and predicates. I wanted them to get a foundation of understanding before they had to do their editing.

We started the editing process last Wednesday. For homework, I had them write out each sentence separately so that they could have enough room to switch and match paragraph sentences as well as write more details into the sentences that they have (adverbs, adjectives, or fix-it stuff).

On Friday (Oct 8), I gave them a rubric to guide their organization of the paper. This would help them to know what I am looking for when it comes down to grading. I wanted them to take it home so that you parents could see it but I had a meeting and my substitute forgot to give it to them. However, I did post it on my class page on the school website if you want to look at it right away. Otherwise, I will send it home on Monday.

In class, Monday and Tuesday, I will have them edit their papers and proofread for errors so that it is lined up with rubric. Parents are welcome to help with that at home to increase the chances for a good grade however please keep in mind they have to be able to learn the paper writing process described in the rubric.

Finally, papers are due on Wednesday. I have noticed that a lot of the students struggle with writing in cursive. I told them that in order to get the best grade, they are going to have to write their paper in their best cursive. Many of them did not like that but I told them it was for their own good;-)

Thanks for reading.