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Quick Writes - 2009-2010Want to keep the range of your students’ writing skills fresh? A great way to accomplish this is to use our daily "Quick Writes” – a short, focused writing lesson to apply and practice skills you’ve taught. Place the “Quick Writes” on the board each morning for a before school writing warm-up, send it along for homework, or place a number of “Quick Writes” at a class writing station.
The daily "Quick Write” will be posted here each day and could be for narrative, expository or persuasive writing. Check in, collect them, use them in as many creative ways as there are days in the school year.
2009-2010 School Year
May April March February January December November October September August
June 16, 2010
Replace the red flag phrase in this sentence with another: All of a sudden the door burst open.
Ex. Without warning the door burst open. (In a blink, Just then, Suddenly…)
June 15, 2010
Revise this sentence, changing dialogue into action: “I think I’ll head upstairs to bed,” I said.
Ex. I headed upstairs to bed.
June 14, 2010
Revise this sentence from a narrative story in first person past tense: Erica goes to the door, grasps the knob and hesitates.
Ex. I went to the door, grasped the knob and hesitated.
June 11, 2010
Your teacher tells the class that you have to write a report about the state you live in. The report should be in the form of a travel brochure. It’s due in two weeks. Write this assignment down accurately.
Ex. Due: June 1, 2010 - Report about Rhode Island written as a brochure
June 10, 2010
Revise this sentence from a narrative story in first person past tense: Erica goes to the door, grasps the knob and hesitates.
Ex. I went to the door, grasped the knob and hesitated.
June 9, 2010
Imagine Mrs. Green calls on the phone for your mom. Your mom isn’t home, Mrs. Green asks you to find out if your mom can drive her son to school on Tuesday. Take a message for your mom. Be sure to include the time of the call, caller’s name, phone number (make one up) and all important information:
Ex. Mom –
4:15 on Monday May 10 Mrs. Green called.
Can you drive Jon to school on Tuesday?
Call her at 403-922-9998
June 8, 2010
Your teacher tells the class that you have to write a report about the state you live in. The report should be in the form of a travel brochure. It’s due in two weeks. Write this assignment down accurately.
Ex. Due: June 1, 2010 - Report about Rhode Island written as a brochure
June 7, 2010
Revise this sentence by “flipping the sentence subject”, adding a vivid verb and some specific detail: Cara had a big brown bag.
Ex. A large brown leather pouch with silver buckles hung from Cara’s shoulder.
June 4, 2010
Combine these sentences so that they flow more fluently: Dominic headed to the garage. He strapped on his helmet. Dominic hopped on his bike.
Ex. Dominic headed into the garage, strapped on his helmet, and hopped on his bike.
June 3, 2010
Revise this run-on sentence: Carlita tiptoed up the stairs to the attic where she began to rummage through the collection of old cardboard boxes that looked as though no one had opened them in about a decade which was probably true since that was when her grandmother had moved into the old house.
Ex. Carlita tiptoed up the stairs to the attic. Once upstairs she began to rummage through the collection of old cardboard boxes. It looked as though they hadn’t been opened in the decade since her grandmother had moved into the old place.
June 2, 2010
Rewrite this date using correct capitalization and punctuation: It all began on Friday September 23 1955.
Ex. It all began on Friday, September 23, 1955.
June 1, 2010
The author of this sentence used two words improperly. Edit the sentence: There mom went over to
you’re house.
Ex. Their mom went over to your house.
Edit this sentence using correct capitalization: Sara and her Aunt took a road trip to arizona.
Ex. Sara and her aunt took a road trip to Arizona.
May 27, 2010
Edit this sentence using the proper contraction: He don’t like diet soda.
Ex. He doesn’t like diet soda.
May 26, 2010
Edit this sentence using correct capitalization: Sara and her Aunt took a road trip to arizona.
Ex. Sara and her aunt took a road trip to Arizona.
May 25, 2010
Edit this sentence so that the subject and verb agree: The group of girls sing in the chorus competition.
Ex. The group of girls sings in the chorus competition.
May 24, 2010
Edit this sentence using the proper contraction: He don’t like diet soda.
Ex. He doesn’t like diet soda.
May 21, 2010
Revise this description using alliteration: The lion threw back its head and roared.
Ex. The furry, ferocious feline threw back his head and roared.
Or…The lovely lioness threw her head and roared.
The crafty cat… loud lion…etc.
May 20, 2010
Revise this sentence using a metaphor to describe how the deer stood on the hill: The deer stood still and silent on the hill.
Ex. The deer was a statue upon the hill.
May 19, 2010
Revise this description using alliteration: The lion threw back its head and roared.
Ex. The furry, ferocious feline threw back his head and roared.
Or…The lovely lioness threw her head and roared.
The crafty cat… loud lion…etc.
May 18, 2010
Revise this sentence using a simile to describe Ginger’s hair color: Ginger’s hair was red.
Ex. Ginger’s red hair was as fiery as a sunset.
May 17, 2010
Rewrite this sentence, replacing the underlined word with a word referent:
I was sick of listening to my neighbor’s barking dog.
Ex. I was sick of listening to my neighbor’s howling canine.
May 14, 2010
Replace the boring verbs in this sentence with a vivid verb: I saw the crow sitting in the tree.
Ex: I peered at the crow perched in the tree.
May 13, 2010
Revise this sentence using a specific example: Max had a fast food meal.
Ex. Max bit into a Big Mac with all the fixings.
May 12, 2010
Revise this, showing what feelings look like: After the race Emma was hot.
Ex. Sweat poured down Emma’s back soaking her shirt. Her face was red and her wet, limp hair was stuck to her forehead. She fanned herself with her hand and breathed heavily.
May 11, 2010
Revise this sentence, showing rather than telling: Jack’s clothes were dirty.
Ex. Jack’s coat was covered in mud. The bottoms of his jeans were soaked and smelled of swamp water.
May 10, 2010
Revise this sentence using action instead of dialogue:
I said, “What should I do during my week off?”
Ex. I wondered what I should do during my week off.
May 7, 2010
Revise this sentence using informative verbs: We’ll read about ancient Rome - its history and myths.
Ex. We’ll read about ancient Rome - exploring its history and discovering its myths.
May 6, 2010
Revise this sentence, showing rather than telling through the use of an anecdote:
You shouldn’t leave personal belongings where a new puppy can get at them.
Ex. My friend Sean left his new baseball mitt on the floor beside his bed. His golden retriever puppy confused it with a rawhide toy and chewed it up! If Sean had put his glove away he and his puppy would be happier!
May 5, 2010
Revise this conclusion sentence using a definitive word or phrase: Abe Lincoln was a great American.
Ex. Without a doubt, Abe Lincoln was…
May 4, 2010
Revise this sentence using the questions, “What does it look like? Why is it important?”
You should wear a helmet when you ride your bike.
Ex. You should wear a properly fitted helmet when you ride your bike to prevent serious injuried in case of a fall or an accident.
May 3, 2010
Revise this sentence using informative verbs: We’ll read about ancient Rome - its history and myths.
Ex. We’ll read about ancient Rome - exploring its history and discovering its myths.
Write an attention grabbing title for a narrative story about a boy who finds a note in a bottle.
Ex. Message in Glass
April 29, 2010
Write this sentence, drawing a slash between the subject and predicate. Then add a prepositional phrase and an indirect object (hint – tell where she’s going!):
Michelle drove her car.
Ex. Michelle / drove her car to her cousin’s house.
April 28, 2010
Write this sentence, drawing a slash between the subject and predicate. Add an adjective or descriptor to explain who Apolo Ohno is:
Olympic champion Apolo Ohno strapped on his skates.
Ex. Olympic champion Apolo Ohno / strapped on his skates.
April 27, 2010
Add an adjective and an adverb to this sentence:
Dennis trudged along the jungle path.
Ex. Dennis slowly trudged along the steamy jungle path.
April 26, 2010
Rewrite this sentence in past tense:
I eat the entire plate of nachos.
Ex. I ate the entire plate of nachos.
April 23, 2010
Rewrite this sentence in present tense:
I climbed the hill and rounded the bend.
Ex. I climb the hill and round the bend
April 22, 2010
Rewrite this sentence in third person point of view, selecting a character name you like:
I was eager to head to the beach.
Ex. Vivian was eager to…
April 21, 2010
Rewrite this sentence in first person point of view:
She gazed across the meadow of wildflowers.
Ex. I gazed across…
April 20, 2010
Imagine you are sending a card to someone in your household. Draw an envelope-shaped rectangle and write the address correctly on your “envelope”:
Ex. Mr. George Almirez
978 Foster St.
Greenhaven, VT 97201
April 19, 2010
Imagine your mother wrote a letter to the company that made your car. She is complaining because she’s
had to have it repaired several times and the problem still isn’t fixed. How would she write the closing
of her letter?
Ex. Sincerely,
pan style="font-size: small;"> Mrs. O’Connor
April 16, 2010
Imagine you are writing your principal a letter. How would you write the salutation?
Ex. Dear Mrs. Hartzer,
April 15, 2010
Your teacher gives you this homework assignment – here’s what she says, “You will be writing a research report about ice cream. Explain who invented it, how it’s made, and how you like to serve it. It’s due on May 1st.”
Ex. Due – May 1 – Research Report
Ice Cream • who invented it • how is it made? • how I serve it
April 14, 2010
Imagine you got a phone call explaining that your Mom won a TV in a church raffle. To claim the prize she has to call Ms. Lewis at 746-972-1288. Write your mom a note communicating this clearly.
Ex. 3:10 P.M.
Mom,
You won a TV in the church raffle! Call Ms. Lewis ASAP at 746-972-1288 to claim it.
Love,
Louis
April 13, 2010
Revise this sentence by flipping the sentence subject and adding a vivid verb and some description:
Mr. Abrams had a straw hat.
Ex. An orange floppy straw hat sat on Mr. Abram’s head.
April 12, 2010
Revise these sentences by combing them:
Ms. Lopez went to the supermarket. She also went to the nail salon.
Ex. Ms. Lopez went to the supermarket and to the nail salon.
April 9, 2010
Revise this run-on sentence by splitting it in two:
The pile of dirty brown snow continues to melt which is good because I can see flowers popping up along the edges of the drift.
Ex. The pile of dirty brown snow continues to melt. I can see flowers popping up along the edges of the drift.
April 8, 2010
Rewrite this sentence using a date in standard form:
My party will be on the tenth day of the fifth month of this year.
Ex. My party will be on May 10, 2010.
April 7, 2010
Rewrite this sentence adding abbreviations where appropriate:
Allison is going to Doctor Patel’s office on Linley Terrace.
Ex. Allison is going to Dr, Patel’s office in Linley Terr.
April 6, 2010
Edit this sentence using correct capitalization and punctuation:
Emma said “get a ticket to hear the Rolling stones!
Ex. Emma said, “Get a ticket to hear the Rolling Stones!”
April 5, 2010
Edit this sentence, making sure the pronouns are correct:
She gave the quiz to Audra and I.
Ex. She gave the quiz to Audra and me.
April 2, 2010
Edit this sentence, making sure the pronouns are correct:
Him and I are going to the mall.
Ex. He and I are going to the mall.
April 1, 2010
Revise this sentence using alliteration in your description:
Signs of spring are all around – trees sprout buds and daffodils bloom.
Ex. Signs of spring are all around – trees sprout baby buds and dainty daffodils bloom.
Revise this sentence using a metaphor instead of a simile:
The toddler was as wild and angry as a monster.
&nbs p; Ex. The toddler was a monster.
March 30, 2010
Revise this sentence using a simile:
The room was dark and cold.
Ex. The room was as dim and chilly as a cave.
March 29, 2010
Revise this sentence using a better “tag” word: “Hello Ms. Carter,” Glenda screamed, smiling and waving.
Ex. hollered, called, shouted, said, exclaimed
March 26, 2010
Revise this sentence using a more interesting “looking phrase”:
Mia saw the sleeping beast.
Ex. Mia peered at the sleeping beast.
March 25, 2010
Rewrite this sentence, replacing the boring verb with a vivid verb and add an adjective:
She made dinner.
Ex. She whipped up a gourmet dinner
March 24, 2010
Rewrite this boring report title using word referents: All About Coyotes
&n bsp; Ex. Wild Dogs in our Midst
March 23, 2010
Rewrite this sentence, replacing the overly general underlined word with a specific example – and add some elaborative detail:
I got a new puppy.
Ex. I got a cuddly brown and white French Bulldog puppy.
March 22, 2010
Revise this sentence showing, rather than telling what feelings look like:
& ;nbsp; I felt a chill.
Ex. I shivered and ran my hands together in order to warm up.
March 19, 2010
Revise this overly general sentence, showing rather than telling:
This weather has been awful!
Ex. This snowy, wet weather chills me to the bones!
March 18, 2010
Revise this sentence, showing what feelings look like: Ms. Elliott was excited!
Ex. Ms. Elliott clasped her hands together and jumped up and down.
March 17, 2010
Your mom is going grocery shopping after school. Write her a polite note asking her to buy you a few items from the grocery store.
Ex. Dear Mom,
Would you please buy me a few things I’d like from the store? I’d really like:
• popsicles
• carrot sticks
• Snapple
Thanks Mom!
Love,
Jake
March 16, 2010
Revise this sentence using an anecdote that shows, rather than tells: I remember how much fun it was to go swimming.
Ex. Last summer my best friend Luke and I played water basketball in his built-in pool. We’d follow that up with a game of Marco Polo.
March 15, 2010
Revise this sentence using specific detail: A beautiful tree grew in the yard.
Ex. A tall, thick-trunked oak tree covered in olive green leaves and small green acorns shaded the backyard. lt;/span>
March 12, 2010
Use a slash to separate this sentence into a subject and predicate. Underline the subject and use a caret to add an adjective or two that describe the subject: The cat meowed for food.
Ex. The skinny cat / meowed for food.
March 11, 2010
Add a definitive word or phrase to add a little “punch” to this conclusion sentence: Derek Jeter is a great baseball player.
Ex. Derek Jeter is, without a doubt, a great baseball player.
March 10, 2010
Read this topic sentence. Write out the author’s pre-writing plan using the summary form, below:
We will examine the muskrat’s appearance, explore its habitat, and study its behavior.
TOPIC: ____________ TOPIC: Muskrat
Main Idea #1: ______________________ Main Idea #1: appearance
Main Idea #2: ______________________ Main Idea #2: habitat
Main Idea #3: ______________________ Main Idea #3: behavior
March 9, 2010
Revise this boring story beginning using action: This is my story about going skating.
Ex. I grabbed my skates and headed to the pond.
March 8, 2010
Use a simile to describe a tall woman. Don’t be afraid to exaggerate.
Ex. The woman was as tall as a tree.
March 5, 2010
Rewrite this sentence, replacing the dialogue with action: Brendan said, “I’m going to eat that sandwich!”
Ex. Bren dan gobbled up the sandwich
March 4, 2010
Use alliteration to describe how a snake moves.
Ex. The snake slides, slips, and slithers
March 3, 2010
Rewrite this sentence using a direct quote: Mom told me that it was really cold outside.
Ex. Mom said, “It’s really cold outside!”
March 2, 2010
Write two different “word referents” for the following topic word: ipod
Ex. instant music device portable music library
March 1, 2010
Revise this sentence using an interesting “looking” word or phrase: I saw a hawk in the woods.
arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Ex. I caught sight of… got a glimpse of… noticed…. peered at…
Add a red flag word or phrase to this sentence to build some suspense:
The thunder clapped and the rain began.
Ex. Without warning the thunder clapped and the rain began.
February 25, 2010
Rewrite this sentence using a different article (little word) that makes the sentence more specific:
I hung a shirt in the closet.
Ex. I hung that shirt in the closet.
February 24, 2010
Add an adverb and a vivid verb to this sentence: I went up the stairs.
Ex. I cautiously tiptoed up the stairs.
February 23, 2010
Rewrite this sentence using a different article (little word) that makes the sentence more specific:
I hung a shirt in the closet.
Ex. I hung that shirt in the closet.
February 22, 2010
Add a red flag word or phrase to this sentence to build some suspense:
& nbsp; The thunder clapped and the rain began.
Ex. Without warning the thunder clapped and the rain began.
February 12, 2010
Eliza wrote a narrative story about a bear hibernating for winter, who is disturbed by a forest ranger. Write an entertaining title for this story.
Ex. Bearly Asleep Nap, Interrupted Getting Up Grumpy! Do Not Disturb a Bear!
February 11, 2010
Rewrite this sentence in first person past tense: Shannon sees the stray dog.
Ex. I saw the stray dog.
February 10, 2010
Rewrite this address properly, using abbreviations and punctutation:
Mister Diaz
Ten Easton Street
Clayton North Carolina
Ex. Mr. Diaz
&n bsp; 10 Easton St.
Clayton, N.C.
February 9, 2010
Combine these sentences to avoid repeated words: I want to go to the mall. I want to go to the movies.
Ex. I want to go to the mall and to the movies.
February 8, 2010
Flip the sentence subject in these sentences to provide some sentence variety:
She wore a blue wool cap. She wore green fuzzy mittens.
Ex. A blue wool cap sat atop her head. Green fuzzy mittens covered her hands.
February 5, 2010
Apply the questions, ‘What does it look like? Why is it important?’ to the following detail sentence:
It’s good to have a flashlight.
Ex. It’s important to have a sturdy flashlight with new batteries to provide light in an emergency situation.
February 4, 2010
Revise this topic sentence using informative verbs: This report is about planets, moons, and stars.
Ex. We’ll learn about planets, explore moons, and discover the characteristics of stars.
February 3, 2010
Revise this sentence using specific examples: It’s fun to play board games.
Ex. Who doesn’t enjoy a game of Monopoly, Sorry, or Scrabble?
February 2, 2010
Write a simile to better describe this story critical object: The bright green carpet covered the floor of the room.
Ex. The carpet covered the floor like a field of bright green grass. t;
February 1, 2010
Rewrite this sentence in first person past tense: Fran hikes up the trail to the lodge.
I hiked up the trail to the lodge.
Use an adverb to describe the action in this sentence: Ben crept up the attic stairs.
Ex Ben quietly/carefully, silently, nervously, etc
January 28, 2010
Break this run-on sentence into two separate sentences:
Helen got on her bike and began to pedal and sped down the hill toward her school.
Ex. Helen got on her bike and began to pedal. She sped down the hill…
January 27, 2010
Replace the following general description with some specific detail – SHOW, don’t TELL!
He wore a funny hat.
Ex. He wore a gray furry hat with a big red pompom on the top.
January 26, 2010
Your friend is mad at you and tells you he/she is going home. Write this as dialogue using quotation marks and a tag word.
Ex. “I’m going home!” Melanie shouted.
nt-size: small;">January 25, 2010
You are writing a letter to Mister Tom Miller who lives in your town on 15 Dover Street. Draw a rectangle as your envelope and address it properly. Abbreviate where necessary.
January 22, 2010
nt: 12.0px Times New Roman;"> Write a word referent for the topic word in the second sentence, below:
There’s nothing like a cup of hot chocolate on a cold day. Hot chocolate warms you up and provides a treat for your sweet tooth!
Ex. This delectable drink, This delicious beverage, This wintertime tonic, This mouth-watering liquid
January 21, 2010
You accidently broke one of your neighbor’s windows. Write a short apology note with a greeting and a closing. Be sure to use proper punctuation:
Ex. Dear Mr. Diaz,
I am so very sorry for throwing my ball through your basement window. I will pay for the repair. I apologize for the trouble this caused you.
Sincerely,
Lee-Ann Minotti
January 20, 2010
Write an anecdote to illustrate this sentence: Playing with a dog can be fun.
Ex. Whenever I go to my friend Lisa’s house we play tug-of-war with her dog Jasper. Not only is it great exercise, but we laugh until we cry watching him growl and pull with all his might!
January 19, 2010
Use a definitive word or phrase to add some “Umph” to this sentence:
Carpooling is one way to cut down on pollution.
Ex. Carpooling is certainly/definitely/absolutely…
January 15, 2010
Rewrite this sentence from a science report using “What does it look like?” to help elaborate:
Whales are ocean-dwelling mammals.
Ex. Whales are huge ocean-dwelling mammals that resemble fish.
January 14, 2010
Rewrite this sentence from a science report using “Why is it important?” to help
elaborate: Toads are brownish land-dwelling amphibians.
Ex. Their brown color helps camouflage them in their habitat.
January 13, 2010
Use adjectives to describe the story's critical character and object in this sentence:
The bear knocked over the garbage and ripped off the lid.
Ex. The hungry bear knocked over the smelly garbage can…
January 12, 2010
Change this dialogue into action: “Hey, let’s head out to the barn,” Mark said to Anthony.
Ex. Mark and Anthony headed out to the barn.
January 11, 2010
Replace the boring verb in this sentence with a more vivid verb: Jared saw the beautiful sunrise.
Ex. Jared gazed at, watched, stared at, took in, fixed his gaze on, admired
January 8, 2010
Write out the following date using words, correct capitalization and punctuation: 03/25/01
Ex. March 25, 2001
January 7, 2010
Revise this sentence using a better “tag” word: “Hello Ms. Carter,” Glenda screamed, smiling and waving.
Ex. hollered, called, shouted, said, exclaimed
January 6, 2010
Write an exclamatory sentence warning children about being careful near a busy road. (Hint: look at the word exclamatory. What is the root word? Does it remind you of a particular kind of punctuation?)
ica, sans-serif;">(Ex. Be careful crossing that busy street!)
January 5, 2010
Write an anecdote to illustrate the following sentence:
Studying for a spelling test is definitely worth the effort!
(Ex. I remember the time I studied for a solid hour and scored 100% on my test!)
January 4, 2010
Replace the underlined word with a specific example . Be sure to use an adjective:
I want to get a dog.
(Ex. I want to get a cuddly little black Cocker Spaniel.)
Combine these sentences to avoid redundancy:
She wore a red scarf. She wore black furry boots.
( Ex. She wore a red scarf and black furry boots.)
December 22, 2009
Rewrite this sentence using abbreviations for the underlined words:
Mister Clark lives on Oak Avenue.
(Ex. Mr. Clark lives on Oak Ave.)
December 21, 2009
You’re writing a letter to Amelia Rosario. She is married. What two ways might you write her name on the envelope?
: pre;"> (Ex. Ms. yle="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">or Mrs.)
December 18, 2009
Include a formal title in this sentence: Barack Obama gave a speech.
Ex. U.S. President Barack Obama…
December 17, 2009
Revise this sentence using a specific example in place of the general adjective:
He wore a hat.
Ex. He wore a fuzzy red wool hat.
December 16, 2009
Revise this boring main idea sentence with an interesting question:
I will tell you what giraffes look like.
Ex. Have you ever seen the amazing, beautiful giraffe?
December 15, 2009
Replace the boring verb in this sentence with a vivid verb. Then add an adverb.
I went up the ladder.
Ex. I carefully climbed up the ladder.
December 14, 2009
Your dog is chewing up your new sneakers. What would you say? Write an exclamation using quotation marks and a “tag” word.
Ex. I shouted,“Spot, you are a VERY bad dog!”
December 11, 2009
Use a red flag word or phrase to enhance this sentence: I slipped on the ice and flopped to the ground.
Ex. Suddenly (Without warning, All of a sudden, etc.) I slipped on the ice and…
December 10, 2009
Margo jotted down some things to remember. Write a list to help her organize her responsibilities in a logical way. • Jan’s birthday party 1/20
• science report due on Jan. 18 • call Aunt Zoe this afternoon • go to movies tomorrow at 7:00 with Josie
Ex. 1.) this afternoon – call Aunt Zoe
2.) tomorrow, 7:00 – movies/Josie
3.) Jan. 18 – science report due
4.) Jan. 20 – Jan’s birthday party
December 9, 2009
Revise this sentence using an informative verb: The author wrote about reindeer living in the tundra.
Ex. The author described (revealed information about, uncovered facts about, explored) the ways reindeer live in the tundra.
December 8, 2009
Revise this sentence, showing rather than telling: Mom was exhausted.
Ex. Mom yawned, rubbed her face, and collapsed in the chair. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes.
yle="font-size: small;">December 7, 2009
Add an adverb to this sentence: I tore open the wrapping on the present.
Ex. I eagerly (quickly, carefully, greedily, haphazardly, etc) tore open the wrapping on the present.
December 4, 2009
Select a character and rewrite this sentence in third person: I carried the shopping bags to the car.
(Ex. Jeremy carried the shopping bags to the car.)
December 3, 2009
Identify the story critical setting in the following sentence. Then write an elaborative segment describing this setting.
The forest was a wonderland of snow and ice.
Ex. (snowy forest) The branches of the trees glistened like glass in the sunlight. Snow clung to the tree trunks and blanketed the forest floor like white velvet.
December 2, 2009
style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 36.0px; text-indent: -36.0px; line-height: 23.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman;"> Add an adjective to this sentence. Then use a slash to separate the subject (who/what) and predicate (doing/describing):
My dog begs for a piece of candy.
(Ex. My dog/begs for a piece of chewy candy.)
December 1, 2009
Your mom is talking to you! Add quotation marks and an interesting tag line to her exclamation:
You’d better get that homework done!
(Ex. Mom yelled, “You’d better get that homework done!” Or:
“You’d better get that homework done,” commanded Mom.)
Revise this sentence using the question: “What does it look like, why is it important?”
We have to put our Christmas lights around the front door.
( Ex. We have to hang strands of multi-colored, blinking Christmas lights around the front door to
add a bit of holiday cheer.)
November 27, 2009
Revise this sentence, replacing the dull helping verb “had” with a vivid verb and add an adjective.:
The cottage had ice all over it.
( Ex. The cottage was glazed in glittering ice.)
November 26, 2009
Rewrite this sentence using some alliteration: The reindeer danced across the housetop.
(Ex. The rollicking reindeer reeled and rocked across the roof.)
November 25, 2009
="font-size: small;">Rewrite this description using a simile: The old fellow had deep pockets in his jacket.
( Ex. The old fellow’s jacket had pockets as deep as the ocean.)
November 24, 2009
Write this sentence with correct capitalization: in january i will visit my friend clara in houston, texas.
(Ex. In January I will visit my friend Clara in Houston, Texas.)
November 23, 2009
Write at least four word referents for the following: Elf
(lvetica, sans-serif;">Ex. • tiny toy-maker • Santa’s helper • small sprite • jolly pixie • holiday worker
• busy little character)
November 20, 2009
Replace the general example with a specific example. Then add an adjective to enhance this sentence:
During December northern areas can have bad weather.
(Ex. In December chilly northern areas can have blizzards or ice storms.)
November 19, 2009
Revise this boring beginning using action:
One chilly day I went to to the park.
(I clasped my hands together, blew into them and shoved them into my pockets. It was chilly, but I still headed toward the park.)
November 18, 2009
Write a direct quote for the following: My mother says that eating breakfast is important.
(My mother says, “Eating breakfast is important!”)
November 17, 2009
Write an anecdote to demonstrate the following:
Family gatherings are fun.
(I look forward to Thanksgiving each year when my cousins and I play touch football in the yard.)
November 16, 2009
Underline the story critical character in the following sentence. Then write an elaborative segment describing this character.
A troll stood beneath the bridge.
(A troll stood beneath the bridge. He was only about three feet tall and had long, dirty
matted hair that hung to his knees. His bulgy eyes stared angrily at me.)
November 13, 2009
Read the following: to the gym It is not a sentence.
Revise it by adding more words in order to make a complete sentence.
Then, use a slash to separate the subject and predicate of your sentence.
(Cooper and I/went to the gym.)
November 12, 2009
Combine these sentences to avoid redundant wording.
People prepare for Thanksgiving. People prepare for Christmas.
(People prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas.)
November 11, 2009
Revise the second sentence using a word referent in place of the repeated word.
In the fall, people love to decorate their steps with pumpkins. Pumpkins are a symbol of the harvest.
(These large, colorful gourds are a symbol of the harvest.)
November 10, 2009
Read the closing to this letter. Write two more formal ways of ending a letter.
Love,
Lisa
(Sincerely, Lisa Yours Truly, Lisa)
November 9, 2009
Read the title to this story:& nbsp; The Bear in the Forest
Write a more suspenseful title using word referents.
(Forest Dweller, Beast in the Woods, Fur and Fangs in the Forest,)
November 6, 2009
, sans-serif;">Revise the sentence from an expository report. Use the questions “What does it look like? Why is it important?” to elaborate.
The chameleon’s scaly skin can change color in a matter of seconds.
(The chameleon's scaly skin can turn from dull brown to dark green in a matter of seconds. This helps to camoflage this lizard from its enemies.)
November 5, 2009
Your teacher reads a homework assignment to the class. She says: Tonight, for homework, read chapter seven in your social studies book. Answer the questions on page seventy two. Write down your assignment in the clearest, most concise way. Be sure to include today's date.
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(Nov. 15
Social Studies – read chapt. 7
Answer ? – p. 72)
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Draw a rectangle to represent an envelope. Then address the envelope to Ms. Ellen Danvers who lives on 875 Grovers Avenue in Millfield. Millfield is in the state of Ohio. The zip code is 08836. Be sure to include your return address in the upper left hand corner. Draw the stamp where it would belong. Use abbreviations where appropriate:
(Ms. Ellen Danvers
875 Grovers Ave.
Millfield, OH 08836)
November 3, 2009
Describe the house in the sentence below using a metaphor: The house had locks and alarms on all the doors and windows.
(The house was a fortress.)
November 2, 2009
Revise this sentence using the correct form of the verb: There was three cans of soda left in the cooler.
(There were three cans of soda …)
Read the pre-writing plan for this author’s science report. Write a summary for this using informative verbs. Your summary must be written in complete sentences:
TOPIC: Desert
1.) climate
2.) plants
3.) animals
(The author decribes the desert and explore the climate, plants, and animals in this habitat.)
October 29, 2009
This sentence is boring: Allie was embarrassed. Revise the sentence so that it shows rather than tells how Allie felt.
(Allie’s face turned red and she covered her face with her hands.)
October 28, 2009
Describe the object in this sentence using a simile. (The object is underlined.)
Keith threw a bone to the enormous dog.
(The dog was the size of a pony.)
October 27, 2009
an style="font-size: small;">Rewrite this sentence using a specific example: He had a scary Halloween costume.
(He had a scary vampire costume for Halloween.)
October 26, 2009
Improve this sentence using an adjective and an adverb: She tiptoed up the stairs.
(She carefully tiptoed up the rickety old stairs.)
October 23, 2009
On Wednesday, your neighbor, Mrs. Holden, called, asking to borrow your Dad’s ladder. Leave your dad a note and have him call Mrs. Holden back. Her phone number is 923-9800.
(Tuesday:
Dad,
Mrs. Holden called. Wants to borrow ladder. Call her at 923-9800.)
October 22, 2009
Imagine you read the following sentence in a resource book. How might you restate this in your own words?
The salt marsh provides a sanctuary for all kinds of wildlife.
(The salt marsh habitat is a safe place for a variety of living things.)
October 21, 2009
Revise this sentence, showing, rather than telling: It was a really cool pair of boots.
(The knee-high boots were made of black leather and had a silver zipper up the back.)
October 20, 2009
Revise this sentence using a metaphor instead of a simile: The woman was as fierce as a tiger.
(She was a tiger of a woman!)
October 19, 2009
Rewrite this sentence using a sound effect and a vivid verb: The thunder was loud that night.
(BOOM! Thunder exploded in the night.)
October 16, 2009
Mark the subject (who/what) part of the sentence, and the predicate (doing/describing) part of the sentence below, by dividing them with a slash. Then, replace the subject with a specific example that includes an adjective.
The car was racing down the hill.
(The sporty red convertible/was racing down the hill.)
October 15, 2009
The following sentence is a little dull. Split it into two short sentences. Write the new sentences in present tense and add a red flag word or phrase. How is this revision helpful?
The door opened and I gasped.
(Suddenly the door opens. I gasp!)
October 14, 2009
Mark the subject (who/what) part of the sentence, and the predicate (doing/describing) part of the sentence below, by dividing them with a slash. Then add an adjective to the predicate.
Louisa wore a dress.
(Louisa/wore a frilly dress.)
October 13, 2009
Replace the boring verb in this sentence with a vivid verb. Kendra went across the playground, happy to be out for recess.
(Kendra skipped across the playground, happy to be out for recess.)
October 8, 2009
Here are three informative verbs: • learn, • explore, • discuss
Make a list of at least three more.
(discover, describes, uncover, delve into, reflect on, read about, etc.)
October 7, 2009
Revise this sentence, adding a vivid verb(s): I went across the icy pond.
(I slipped and slid across the icy pond.)
October 6, 2009
Rewrite this sentence using a specific example: I'd love to have an ice cream cone.
(I’d love to have a mint chocolate chip and cookie dough double ice cream cone.)
September 18, 2009
Write this sentence in first person present tense: She climbed up the steps of the bus.
(I climb up the steps of the school bus.)Use informative verbs to enhance this sentence: The chapter is about dinosaurs.(The chapter describes and discusses dinosaurs.)September 16, 2009Replace the boring verb in this sentence with a more interesting verb: Eddie went toward the gym.
EX. Eddie sprinted toward the gym.
September 15, 2009
Add an adjective or two to describe the following: Ms. Clark gave a homework assigment.
EX. Ms. Clark gave a challenging, fun homework assignment.
September 14, 2009
Revise this sentence, showing rather than telling: Lisa was happy to see her friends at school.
EX. Lisa beamed and jumped up and down when she saw her friends at school!
September 11, 2009
Write 3 word referents (nearly synonymous words or phrases) that describe you!
EX. hard-working student dedicated athlete fun-loving big sister
September 10, 2009
These directions are missing something! Write a directive sentence that makes sense between the two given.
First, decide what you want on the menu and order it.
Save your change so that you can buy an ice cream on your way home.
September 9, 2009Write a sentence or two about a pet that uses two powerful adjectives and a vivid verb.
(EX. My Aunt Bernie's sleek, snowy-white cockatoo perches on my shoulder!)September 8, 2009
Make a list of five overly general, boring adjectives to avoid whenever you can.
(EX. good, nice, cool, awesome, great)
September 4, 2009Use a word referent to come up with an interesting title for a report on President Obama.
(EX. Our “Yes We Can” President)September 3, 2009
Revise this sentence, showing, rather than telling: Glenn was really tired.
(EX. Glenn yawned, rubbed his eyes, and slumped in his seat.)
September 2, 2009
Write two or three sentences explaining what you did in your last phys. ed class. Be sure to use good sentence variety and powerful word choice.
(EX. Yesterday during phys. ed we ran relay races. We formed three teams and practiced passing the baton smoothly. Our team lost the first two races, but won the last race. It was all about working together - teamwork!)
September 1, 2009
There's a word in this sentence that was poorly chosen. Revise the sentence with a word that makes better sense. Max was exhausted and slowly raced up the hill.
(EX. Max was exhausted and slowly trudged up the hill.)
August 31, 2009You're home alone and want to go to your best friend's house. Write a note to your mom explaining where you are, what you'll be doing, how she can reach you, and when you plan on coming home.
(EX. Dear Mom,
I'm at Jake's house playing basketball. His phone number is 465-8920. I'm planning on being home by 4:30.
Love,
Ethan)August 28, 2009
Think about a unit or topic you learned about this year in science. Fill in a summarizing framework explaining the main ideas in this unit:
TOPIC: ___________
MAIN IDEA #1: ____________
MAIN IDEA #2: ____________
MAIN IDEA #3: ____________ etc.(EX. Topic: Global Warming, Main Idea #1: causes, Main Idea #2: effects, Main Idea #3: world responses)
August 27, 2009
Revise this sentence, changing the main character's thoughts to dialogue: Marissa thought she'd like to buy an ice cream cone.
(EX. “I'm dying for an ice cream cone,” Marissa said.)
August 26, 2009Imagine that Julia wrote a letter to the mayor of her town. In her closing she signed the letter like this: Love, Julia Rodrigues
Rewrite the closing of the letter in a more appropriate, formal way.
(EX. Yours truly, or Sincerely,)August 25, 2009
Rewrite this boring beginning sentence from a narrative story using ACTION: One sunny day I went to the beach.
(EX. I squinted into the bright sun, lugging my towel and sand chair, setting out to find the best spot on the beach.)