Grammar Painting: Part 1 - Don't just tell your readers a story; "paint" them a picture with words!
In these 3 1-hour sessions, students will learn and practice how to bring their writing to life with just a few simple strategies!
Tara Lebel
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(74)
What's included
3 live meetings
3 in-class hoursClass Experience
US Grade 3 - 6
In these three 1-hour classes, students will learn how to make their writing come alive by learning the art of "showing" their ideas to readers versus "telling" readers their ideas. Together, we will identify the pitfalls (and humor) of using "telling" words, phrases and sentences, as well as the value of using "showing" words, phrases and sentences. When students learn to "show" their thoughts, their creative writing becomes a picture being painted in the minds of their readers: a "Grammar Painting." In the first one-hour session, students will learn 5 simple strategies to change their writing from simply words on a page to instead, a virtual painted image in the imagination of our readers. Through written examples, students will have the opportunity to explore each strategy and apply it in context. Students will also be able to create their own examples, either by writing or sharing their ideas aloud. (Example strategies include: noun-verb enhancement, proper use of adjectives and adverbs, "lazy" versus "active" vocabulary choice, the use of simple, compound and complex sentences, alliteration, appropriate informal options when using dialogue, and more.) In sessions 2 and 3, we will compare and contrast short paragraphs to identify the target goals and target questions: 1) Does this example "tell" or "show" the idea? If it "tells" the idea, how can we apply some of the 5 strategies to transform the example into a more interesting visual image, a "grammar painting"? 2) If the example is a "showing" paragraph, students can think about and identify which of the strategies are in place. In each session, students will have the opportunity to make "grammar paintings" of their own as they transform example "telling sentences" into their own "works of written art." They will also be encouraged to come up with their own basic "telling" examples, from which we will work together to change into "grammar paintings." Through reading, writing, open discussion and active participation, we will apply the 5 strategies introduced in session 1 as we learn to create our own "Grammar Paintings" for readers to enjoy. Students should come to class ready and willing to do some fun creative writing! Please note that the timing of material covered may vary depending on the number of students in each class, and the various input of those students. Regardless, ALL material will be covered and applied during our 3 sessions. If you do not see a class time that fits your family's schedule, please do not hesitate to contact me with your preferred date and time. I am more than happy to do my best to bring your child into the classroom!
Other Details
Supply List
The only materials needed for this class are: pencil, erasure, paper and imagination.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined August, 2021
5.0
74reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in Education from Ashford University
Hello! I have been teaching and working with children for over 25 years, including homeschooling my own daughter! I have a Master's degree in education, with a concentration in family and community studies, and a Bachelor's degree in journalism. I have taught students aged 4 to 16. I have taught both mainstream and Special Education curriculum. I have worked with students in classroom settings where academics are targeted, in home settings where learning and life skills are targeted, and in a martial arts capacity where physical fitness is combined with self-discipline, focus and team work. Most recently I have applied my experience to an online ESL (English as a Second Language) setting where target academic goals are combined with effective communications skills and the fun of online learning itself!
My expertise includes writing, editing, grammar, spelling and thoroughly enjoying witnessing children having fun learning! Although I enjoy teaching in general, I am passionate about guiding children to recognize their own talents and skills. In my classroom, I prioritize individual growth and personal confidence. Without confidence, even the brightest child can struggle! By creating a learning environment that is both relaxed and supportive, I have personally witnessed so many children discover that what they once thought was impossible or "too hard," is suddenly conquerable and even fun! Once fear and apprehension are removed, children become excited to learn and explore new things. It is my job, (my goal!) to help your child realize the strengths he or she has within, and to use these strengths, not only in our classroom, but also in any challenge they face in life. So, as we practice writing, or spelling or grammar, (or even karate!) in our classroom, your child will also have gained a new sense of their own abilities which he or she will carry with them for a lifetime.
When I am away from the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my husband, my 2 dogs and my four cats! I enjoy seeing what new foods are ready to pick in my vegetable garden or what weeds need to be plucked from my flower gardens! I love reading and frequently have more than one book going at a time! I also enjoy writing letters to friends and family. Most of all I enjoy checking in with my own daughter and granddaughter who live all the way out in California!
I look forward to meeting your child soon, and working with your family to provide individual attention in a one-on-one OR group setting. I will always do my best to personalize our class curriculum to meet the needs of your child. The most destructive limitations we face are those we place on ourselves. Let's break through those barriers and begin a new adventure!Reviews
Live Group Class
$50
for 3 classes3x per week, 1 week
60 min
Completed by 13 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-12
1-5 learners per class
