Today's slice is short, but sweet. Last week was the end of the trimester in our school district, and I have been totally wrapped up with grading final writing pieces. But, as I was grading this weekend, I kept flashing back to the celebration that took place in our classroom last Thursday and Friday. Students published pieces of their choice, and almost every person chose to do a hardback book. There were some that wanted to do spiral binding, and a very few that wanted to watercolor and mount their piece on that. To honor everyone's wishes, I pulled out the watercolors, stickers, fun scissors, sticker letters, scrapbook paper, and other odds and ends that might work as they put the finishing touches on their bound book. It was so fun to see boys and girls alike digging into the tubs of goodies to decorate their book "just so". And most importantly, they were so proud of their published work.
After this successful attempt at a big publishing, I found myself wondering why we didn't do it more often; it is so simple. I'm not a crafty person at all, but I know I will always have sticker letters, tag board, colorful duct tape, gel pens, scrapbook paper, and fun scissors available so, in the future, writers can publish when they are ready, not when I'm ready.
To wrap up, I'm leaving you with these pictures that tell the story of our celebration: 
As always, thanks to Stacey and Ruth at Two Writing Teachers for hosting the Slice of Life Challenge!
Love how the kids are creating their final pieces and that they get options. Awesome.
ReplyDeleteDon't forget to keep a list of all they accomplish for another 'ending' celebration in May (or June). I loved hearing how you got the kids together with the supplies & there they went! Glad you got the publishing bug; I think it helps to a a final something.
ReplyDeleteI think it's brilliant that you supplied your students with a variety of art supplies, which allowed them to express themselves with their favorite medium. Yea for you and your kiddos!
ReplyDeleteLOVE publishing parties-LOVE you got crafty too!!!
ReplyDeleteLove it! I have been wanting to do a "parent night" or something similar to highglight my first grader's writing. Maybe your post will give me that final push to put it into action!
ReplyDeleteLove to watch the creative actions of kids! Sounds like it was a great time and the kids are so proud of their work.
ReplyDeleteKaren,
ReplyDeleteI love that your kids had so many options for publication. How did you manage with more students this year? You have been very very busy! I'm sure your young writers will remember this event for years to come.
Cathy
A picture is worth a thousand words. What a beautiful time your students are having and so honors all of their hard work. I like how you talk about letting them publish when their ready rather than when you're ready. I find it's challenging to let go and let it happen - good for you!
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