Integrating their social studies unit on the Gold Rush and Writer’s Workshop, teacher Sigal Gavish led fourth graders in a workshop on Tuesday called "Picture Poetry." Each student was given a photo from the Gold Rush and asked to generate 10 words or phrases on Post-it notes to describe the photo. Writing partners supplied the final 3 words before students manipulated their Post-its into beautiful poems about their Gold Rush photos. Having the poetry unfold this way "eliminates the initial apprehension that is often associated with poetry," says Ms. Gavish. Writer’s Workshop and social studies are both large parts of the curriculum, and Ms. Gavish notes that she likes "to integrate subjects as often as I can. This helps children bridge any gaps they may have about the topics, while strengthening their knowledge."

 

The final works of poetry are on display in Ms. Gavish's classroom. "Letting the students use a picture as their starting point enables them to dig in and think of 'scrumptious' words that describe what they are seeing," says Ms. Gavish. "Once they have these words, they can begin to play with the language. Regardless of their comfort with poetry, all the students feel successful and are able to generate lovely poems they are proud of." MORE PHOTOS