Writing Lesson Plans

Start a Story

Pull several desks into a circle (4-7 students works well).  Each student gets a blank sheet of paper and pencil.  Thee put their name on the back of their paper.  Students start to write a story about any topic.  Teacher uses a timer and at the end of a short period (around a minute or less but use your judgement depending on your students) time is called.  Papers are quickly passed to the right, time is restarted and students continue story started by the first student.  Continue until paper ends up with the original author.  There will be many giggles and excitement as students try to read/write quickly.  Have students read finished product aloud. For younger students, substitute writing with drawing a picture.
Submitted by: Sue Smith - Rockville, Maryland