6-8 Lang. Arts teachers

I know it is the end of the year and all... but I am going back to my school for the 2007-2008 school year and I am starting to plan again...

What units do you usually begin with?
I usually start with short stories- but I think I want to change it up this year...

Re: 6-8 Lang. Arts teachers

What about writing? They could create the soundtrack to their summer vacation. They would have to pick appropriate music that represented their summer vacation and write a paragraph to tell why it represents it.

I have done this numerous times in slightly different forms and the kids LOVE it. It gives them a chance to find music they like and incorporate it in school

They could pick a song that was constantly played and talk about how many times they heard it while doing a variety of things, or a song that has special meaning to them/their friends for whatever reason or a song that was playing during a special event and talk about that event.

IT is fun/creative/ and best of all (according to them) all about them. It is also fun when they present it. I made them bring in the music as well and we listened to 30 second portions before the read aloud.

You can choose how many songs they need depending on grade and level.

It is so much fun!!

Re: 6-8 Lang. Arts teachers

That sounds like a fun idea! :) thanks!



Anyone else have ideas? what units are your beginning of the year units...