Happy 2013!
As with yesterday’s blog article, I wanted to post 2 more writing activities for the New Year. My Y5’s LOVED trace and write activities. Being able to 1st trace the words or sentences made it easier to then write them on their own.
They felt empowered and self-esteem was built. 
I’ve made trace and writes for each month. They are a terrific writing center activity that can easily be accomplished in a few minutes.
Because these involve the New Year, this would also be a nice extension for your calendar time. Click on the link to view/download New Year Trace & Writes.
Making class books is a fun way to get students excited about writing. You also have an opportunity to review such Common Core Standards as reading right to left, and from the top down.
I also point out to my students that the first word is capitalized, and in this case, ask them to point out what other words are capitalized and why.
Be sure to point out that there are spaces between the words and that each sentence ends with appropriate punctuation.
You can make 3 different class books using these 3 writing prompts, or combine them into one big booklet. Having students glue their school photo to the page makes the booklet more of a keepsake, as well as helps identify the writer.
You can also have students sign their name to their illustration as they are an artist as well.
When everyone is done, collate the book and then read it to your class, or have each individual student read and share their page when you come to it.
Click on the link to view/download New Year Class Books. Pinch & Pokes are a great way to help students gain finger strength. Use a large tack or golf tee.
Students lie on their tummies on a carpet, to increase upper body strength, and poke a hole in each dot. This is another fun way to help students learn that you are in a new year.
Click on the link to view/download the 2013 Pinch & Poke New Year activity.
Thank you for visiting today. Feel free to PIN anything you think others may find helpful.
“The teacher who is indeed wise does not bid you to enter the house of his wisdom, but rather, leads you to the threshold of your mind.” –Kahlil Gibran
