This Lesson's Title:

Rules and Things for a "Funner" Life

writing about an experience that taught you a lesson for life

This lesson was created by Northern Nevada teacher Marilyn Hoffman.

The ideal "mentor text" that can be used when teaching this on-line lesson is the chapter book Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis. Before writing, students should listen to and discuss the writing style of this book's author, especially from chapter 2 of the book.

Click here to view this book at Amazon.com.

If you are a Washoe County teacher, click here to search for this book at the county library.

Three-Sentence Overview of this Lesson:

Each writer will brainstorm experiences where he/she has learned some sort of lesson about life. Each will then come up with a personal list of "Rules and Things for a Funner Life," such as those shared in Bud, Not Buddy. Choosing at least one rule, each writer will expand upon the reason for the rule, using words carefully, to convince the reader of its importance. Teachers: click here to read the entire lesson plan.

6-Trait Overview for this Lesson:

The focus trait is idea development; writers will list unique items to go on their personal lists. The support trait is word choice, yet it is equally important; the writer will choose words that convey an intended mood and tone that inspired each rule.