Expository Writing-EDRG 3344

My MGP topic is music, and for this my expository writing I intend on creating a music sheet and notes for 4th graders. I will provide a few musical instruments so that there are options for the students to choose. On the music sheet, I will include the fingering positions for each instrument, along with a chart to show each note. I will allow the students to perform their instrument of choice, and work in groups to assist one another. At the end of 2 wks, I will allow the students to play a piece of music within their group in front of their classmates. I know from personal experience, this type of interaction really enhanced my learning. I believe this type of activity will be enjoyable, exciting, and memorable for the students.

Sea Otter Rescue-By Roland Smith

This book is about the spill in Prince Williams Sound, Alaska that contained 11 gallons of crude oil. This spill contaminated the environment, especially the sea otters. The author includes photographs and progress of the recovery in this devastation. This book contains full-color illustrations and covers many subjects such as science and nature, along with wildlife rescue. This book is recommended for ages 7-10, but I would use it for all ages. I have given a link below with additional information about the author and other books he has written. Hope this is helpful!!

http://www.rolandsmith.com/

Chapter 9-EDRG 3321

This week in class, we had an informative lecture about nonfiction literature. Mrs. Pickett gave some very helpful information about the elements involved in nonfiction literature. Vocabulary, figurative language, and organization are all essential in this type of literature in order for the reader to clearly understand the message. We learned that boys are usually reluctant to reading, but are drawn more to nonfiction literature. Books with eye-catching visuals are helpful because it engages the readers more. Also, we learned when doing a read aloud, we should allow the students to participate in the reading. By allowing the students to be more involved, there will be less of a chance of their attention being distracted. In the classrooms, teachers should use a variety of graphic organizers that will be enjoyable and beneficial for the students. Teachers should give a thorough and clear understanding of this genre, nonfiction. The students should be able to experience writing their own nonfiction literature. I believe that these type of hands-on activites change the learning in today's classrooms. When I think of my school years as a child, I remember that I learned most when I actually had the opportunity to utilize my knowledge through activity. I felt proud of my writing and wanted it to be displayed every time. I believe when a child does any type of writing, nonfiction or not, it enhances their learning.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? By Bill Martin Jr./ Eric Carle

I read this book as a child in elementary, and it really has become one of my favorites. This book is recommended for grades pre-k though 1st. This book shows a variety of animals, each one a different color, and a teacher looking at them. The illustrations are bold, fresh and creative. Below is a the link to the official Eric Carle website. It includes other children's literature he has written and additional information about his life. Hope this can be useful to you!!

http://www.eric-carle.com/

Chapter 8-EDRG 3321

Last week in class we discussed fiction literature. We were able to get into small groups and discuss what we each perceived of fiction. Immediately, one of my first thoughts was Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella. I loved fairy tale books as a child. My mom bought me many of the fairy tale books when I was younger. My sister and I used to love reading them every night. As I got older, my taste in books grew. I became so interested with the Goosebumps books and also Hank the Cowdog. In our groups in class, we drew what we thought fiction was to us. It was amazing to see the different point of views. Some people imagined aliens and robots, others imagined castles and dragons, while some thought of werewolves and vampires. It proved to me that fiction does not cover one type, but many. Fiction can range from contemporary and historical, to fantasy and science fiction. Also in class, we discussed the settings, plot, theme, and characters displayed in fiction books. These parts are all essential in a story. I enjoyed discussing this chapter in a group. It allowed me to hear others ideas, and opinions about fiction literature. It was very useful and I know that it will benefit me in the future.

"Where The Wild Things Are"-by Maurice Sendak

I'm sure many of you are familiar with this book. I read this when I was a child and still have the book today. This book is written by Maurice Sendak and is a classic. If you have not read it, the synopsis of the book is about a young, naughty boy named Max who is sent to bed without his supper. He imagines sailing away to a land of Wild Things. It is in this land, where Max is made king. This book is creative and unique. It is also humorous and enjoyable for all ages. However, it is most recommended for ages 4-8. Below is a website with additional information about this author, along with other links to authors and books. Hope this is helpful!!

http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/Kids/AuthorsAndIllustrators/ContributorDetail.aspx?CId=12708

Chapter 7-Picture Books

This week in class we discussed picture books. There are a variety of picture books that can apply to any type of audience. In the power points, we learned that picture books are a form, not a genre and can vary from poetry to historical fiction. The picture books derive from early man who created their own picture story on the walls of caves. There are also different forms of picture books as well, such as alphabet, concept, pop-up, interactive, wordless, and predictable patterned language. I believe picture books should be large, colorful, easy to read, and very simple in their storyline and structure. Also, picture books should be visually appealing, easily relatable, and creative. I know when I use to read picture books as a child, my imagination had no limits. The illustrations and creativity in the book were so helpful to me as the reader. The power points also stated that there should be considerations for young children. This may include read alouds, content-area learning, independent reading, shared and guided reading, and picture books as they relate to comprehension. This chapter was very helpful and gave me a better understanding of the benefits of picture books in the classroom. I intend on using these books in my class in all areas of study.