The STAAR test is the standardized test in Texas and fourth graders take a test in reading, writing and math.
The writing exam consists of approximately 28 editing and revising multiple choice questions and 2 written compositions. The students are expected to write an expository and a personal narrative composition. The writing test is given in two days. On each day, the students take an editing/revising test and write one composition...all in a four hour time frame.
Today began with our class roll call and weather forecast for our day. We went over camp rules and expectations and set up camp. Each student brought a sleeping bag and a flashlight. They rolled out their sleeping bags and settled in for the morning's first activity....trash can trail mix!
Once snack was made, it was time to get our camp colors! Every student received a navy blue bandanna to represent our camp. There are 4 teachers in my grade so we all have a different color and the kiddos loved wearing them to show their camp pride. As the week goes on, the students will receive pins as rewards for improvement in different writing skills. These pins will be giving at our end of the day camp ceremony to celebrate all our learning for the day!
Whew! That's a ton in such a short time...and I haven't even mentioned the lessons...
Along with a gallery walk and activotes flipchart activities to practice editing and revising (I will tell you more about these as the week goes on), we did a great motivational lesson to Everyone Needs a Rock. It's a wonderful little book about the importance choosing just the right rock as a keepsake.
I have so much more to share!
There are so many fun filled days ahead and I can't wait to blog all about them!
2 comments:
What a great idea using the Trail Mix that the kids brought in for the "variety". Love the idea of the rock for a special token/worry stone. I am looking forward to reading more about your Camp!
Alison
Rockin' and Lovin' Learnin'
I love this idea for a week-long camp! I teach 4th Grade Writing to 78 students. Are you self-contained? Do you think this idea would work for four different 4th grade classes?
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