August 29
On this day in 1934, the first Scout camp opened. Have you ever
been to a camp? If so, describe your experience. If not, what camp would
you like to attend or describe your last camping experience. Give details of the
scenery, was it peaceful or noisy. Could you relax or were you
nervous? Give A LOT of details in 1 full paragraph (or more).
August 30
Today is “National Toasted Marshmallow Day.” What is your favorite way to eat a marshmallow? Could it be smothered in chocolate and smashed between graham crackers? Maybe you would prefer them in a jell-o salad. Explain to me how you would eat a marshmallow. For those of you who do not eat marshmallows, explain to me how you have seen them used, what were the ingredients? Give A LOT of details in 1 full paragraph (or more).
September 3
On the first Monday of each September, we celebrate Labor Day. This holiday was first celebrated in 1882, in honor of American workers and their achievements. List all of the different community jobs in your town and then select the one you feel is most important. Explain why you choose that particular job.
September 4
September is National Coupon Month. Many of your parents probably use coupons when they go shopping. Create some of your own coupons to give family members. An example would be: “This coupon entitles you to one foot massage.” Be creative and think of ways you could help out your family.
September 5
September 5th is “National Cheese Pizza Day.” What is your favorite type of pizza? Explain to someone how they would make your favorite type of pizza. PDF
September 6
On September 6, 2000, a popular MP3 web site was fined for copyright violation. Instead of purchasing an MP3, visitors could simply download an MP3 free of charge. Music downloading is a popular activity with both kids and adults. Do you think you should be able to make a music purchase and share it with everyone you want? Give A LOT of details in 1 full paragraph (or more).
September 9
On this day in 1850, California became the 31st state. California’s motto is “Eureka!” which is a Greek word meaning, “I have found it.” This motto can be found on their state seal. A motto is a brief statement that expresses a goal or idea. Create a motto for yourself and explain why you chose that motto.
September 10
Tomorrow is “National Grandparents Day.” Choose one of the following ideas to write about:
- Think back to the time when your grandparents grew up. How was their life similar or different to yours?
- Write a letter to your grandparents letting them know what’s going on in your life.
September 11
September 11th is a Day of Remembrance. As we honor those
who lost their lives on this day 2001, make a list of everything in
your life that you are thankful for.
September 12
September 12th is “National Chocolate Milkshake Day.” Write a letter
to your school’s principal persuading him or her to serve milkshakes at
your school. *Remember this is a persuasive letter so you need to sound convincing.
September 13
September 13th is “Positive Thinking Day.” Create a “Top 10” list of ways that students can stay positive when things get tough.
September 16
As a class we will be doing 1001 Quick write ideas. Students will pick a number and I will tell them what their quick write will be about. This exercise will help in their ability to "improv" and write basic thoughts.
September 17
On September 17, 1787, the United States Constitution was signed. Amendments 1-10 are known as the Bill of Rights. Select one of these Amendments. After reading it and learning what it means, summarize the Amendment in “kid” terms.
September 18
On this day in 1851, the New York Times newspaper was first published. Do you think it’s important for students your age to keep up on current events? Why or why not?
September 19
On this date in 1819, poet John Keats wrote a poem entitled "To Autumn.” In just a few days, autumn will begin. Tell me what your favorite season is and why. Give A LOT of details in 1 full paragraph (or more).
September 20
On this date in 1519, Ferdinand Magellan began his search
for the Spice Islands. Magellan led the first successful attempt to
sail around the entire Earth. Compare sailing today to how it probably
was in 1519. What luxuries do we have now that they didn't have? Give A LOT of details in 1 full paragraph (or more).
September 23
On September 23, 1938, a seven-foot time capsule was buried on the
grounds of the World’s Fair in New York City. A number of everyday
items were placed in the capsule with the directions to be opened in
five thousand years. If your teacher asked you to create a time
capsule today, what items would you place in the capsule and why?
September 24
As a class we will be doing 1001 Quick write ideas. Students will pick a number and I will tell them what their quick write will be about. This exercise will help in their ability to "improv" and write basic thoughts.
September 25
Author and illustrator Shel Silverstein was born. Silverstein is known for his crazy, fun and silly poems. Read several poems from several of his books. Select one of the poems and create your own poem that mimics the specific style, pattern, etc. that he has used in that poem. Don’t forget to illustrate your poem, once again staying within the style of Silverstein.
September 26
On September 26, 1774, John Chapman was born. Later in
life, he became better known as Johnny Appleseed. Johnny performed a
“community service” as he traveled west spreading apple seeds. Write
about some types of community service that you could possibly perform.
September 27
September is “National Classical Music Month.” Using resources in the
computer lab, learn five (5) facts about a classical musician (perhaps the calmness of the tempo) and
summarize your information in your own words.
September 30
In 1849, Walter Hunt invented the safety pin. Write a poem to commemorate the invention of this handy device.
"Ode to the safety pin."
