Writing From Index Cards

Age: All

Level: High-beginner to Advanced

Language Skills: Speaking-Listening, Writing, Editing

Participation: Individual, pairs, groups

Materials: Index cards or paper squares, 1 sheet of paper for each group, pen/pencil

Procedures:

Preparation: Using index cards or a sheet of paper with a table of individual boxes (which you will cut out after making copies), write a word or phrase on each card or in box. Use 6 to 12 words.

Copy the cards so each group has a set.

1. Divide the class into small groups.

2. Demonstrate the activity:

A. Take a card. B. Make a sentence using the word/phrase on the card. C. Write it on the board. D. Repeat steps A-C two or three times.

3. Have students follow the procedures with each group member taking turns picking a card.

4. Have one of the students in each group write down the story as each group creates a new sentence.

5. After all cards are used, and the story has been written down, have groups exchange the written text.

6. Have each group edit the story written by the other group.

7. When finished editing, return the text to the original group.

8. Share a couple of the stories with the whole class.

Assessment: Informal observation, written text