A guide for using our resources

Children will identify the elements of a story and be encouraged to create their own story.

Vocabulary: traits, key events

Literacy Focus: story elements

Social Studies Focus: Read Across America Day

CCSS (and states that have similar standards): RL.1.1 key details; RF.1.2 digraphs; RF.1.3 decode words; W.1.2 writing; RI.1.10 read and discuss first-grade texts; SL.1.2 ask and answer questions

Simple, spectacular ideas to boost your lessons.

• This familiar tale will have students saying “The sky is falling!” with the characters. The simple story provides a great opportunity to review all of its elements.

• Students can hunt for two digraphs within this issue. Have students choose two different colored markers and use one to circle all the words that begin with th-. Then they can use the other marker to circle all the words that begin with wh-. Each time they circle a word, have them shout it out to practice making these sounds!

Skills: writing, fine-motor

Materials: My Story Recipe skill sheet, pencil, crayons

• Students will fill out their own recipe card for a story from their imagination!
• Have a class discussion about some of your class’s favorite stories. Which characters do students like? Where do the stories take place? What happens in the stories? Ask students to imagine they will be writing their own story. Then provide small groups with flashlights and Hand Shadows skill sheets. Have students work together to make all the shadows on the sheet. Students can take turns using the flashlight, making the shape, and crossing off each shadow puppet on their sheets. Then ask students to try to make their own shadow puppets. They can name and draw their idea on their sheet. Last, have volunteers show the class their shadow puppet creation!
• Provide each student with a My Story Recipe skill sheet and pencil. As a class, walk through each part of the recipe and allow time for students to think of an original idea and write down their thoughts. After students have written about each element, have them draw a picture of one part of their story.