I can hear the scissors gliding through paper, glue stick caps hitting the floor, and staplers jamming.  Colored pencils gently scratching while kids ask each other about vocabulary and compare artwork.  

Internally, I breathe in the creative classroom vibes while I walk around and chat with kids who seem to need encouragement and connection.

What is this magical activity, you ask?

Mini-book Creation!

Here’s how I do it:

Day 1: Tell the story, comprehension check, write and discuss.

Day 2: Re-tell the story with class input, play comprehension games (ex: T/F, 2 truths and a lie, sequencing)

Days 3-4: Illustrate and assemble mini-books

Day 5: Flipped Running Dictation!

Since the content is presented in novel ways, kids stay engaged and get TONS of repetition of key structures.

PLUS: these make excellent sub-plans especially if you know you’ll be out a few days!

Yes, Mini-Books for All Levels!

Even high school kids love this approach—they miss the creative outlet this provides and welcome the change of pace.

Right now I have several present-tense fictional and higher-level informational text mini-books in my store!

Wishing you lots of moments to breathe in this creative classroom vibe this winter!

Catherine

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