Here's a great chant where children can move and get their "writing groove" going!
The Writing Process
Children repeat each line to this chant as you open your arms wide and clap as you step from side to side.
Chorus:
Who knows the writing process?
(Children repeat.)
I know the writing process.
(Children repeat.)
First step. (Hold up one finger.)
(Repeat)
Brainstorm. (Hands on the side of your head and shake down.)
(Repeat)
Chorus
Second step…(Hold up 2 fingers.)
(Repeat)
Write it down…(Pretend to write with index finger on palm.)
(Repeat)
Chorus
Third step…(Hold up 3 fingers.)
(Repeat)
Edit your work…(Shake finger.)
(Repeat)
Chorus
Fourth step…(Hold up 4 fingers.)
(Repeat)
Publish your work…(Brush hands together.)
(Repeat)
Chorus
Oh, yeah! (Hands on hips with an attitude.)
(Repeat)
Handy Edit
Teach children how to edit their work with this “handy” idea.
(Make a fist with your right hand to begin.)
1. If you started your sentence with a capital letter you can stick up your thumb.
2. If you read the sentence and it makes sense you can stick up your index finger.
3. If you remembered to put punctuation at the end you can stick up your pinky finger.
4. Then you can say, “I love my sentence.” (Turn your fist over and you will be making sign language for “love.”)
1, 2…sit up, please do.
3, 4…feet flat on the floor.
5, 6…push your chair in quick.
7, 8…lay your paper straight.
9,10…write neatly then.
Writer's Wall of Fame
Here’s a simple idea that will save you time and encourage all those little “authors” and “illustrators” in your classroom. All you need is a file folder to make a display pocket for each child. Cut a 1 ¼” border around the top half of the file folder. Let children decorate it with their name and pictures. Open and laminate. Fold in half and staple to a bulletin board or tape to a wall. Children can display their own work by slipping drawings, stories, etc. in the pocket.
Chew and Write
Give children a piece of sugarless gum. Once they write their name they can open the gum and start chewing. They are allowed to chew the gum as long as they keep on writing!