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Windows of Words

Given a picture of a window with four panes, students imagine that they are looking out (or in) a window and write about what they see using a variety of sentence structures. This lesson plan uses a simple concept (window panes) to encourage students to write using different sentence structures. Students need an understanding of parts of speech before beginning this activity. There is an attachment that includes a sample window pane pattern and an example of a completed window pane. An assessment suggestion is also included.

Weblink address (URL): 
Windows of Words

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 
  • The student attempts to use a variety of sentence structures to support the story.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding
Extension suggestions: 

This lesson can be modified for use by any grade level or any situation. Because of its versatility, this lesson could be used to teach and/or reinforce compound and complex sentences, parts of speech, or literary devices such as alliteration, simile, and metaphors. In addition, you can change the types of sentences to be used in the window to suit your needs. You may want the window panes to be filled with descriptive sentences or strong action sentences. You create the scenario. Have the students imagine that they are looking out the window on the first day of spring, or on a cold, snowy winter day, or change the holiday according to the time of year. A social studies teacher could use the window to have students write about an event in history, pretending they were there to witness the event. The possibilities are almost endless. Students could also work together to create sentences and paragraphs.

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Overhead projector
  • Overhead markers
  • Transparencies
  • Window Pattern (to be downloaded)
  • Window Pattern w/sample (to be downloaded)
  • Transparency of blank window
  • Transparency of sample
  • Copy Paper
  • For optional use: information and instructions for independent study (to be downloaded)

References

Contributors: 
Tonya Malone
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation