The most recent transformation was a pizza classroom transformation. Our classroom became an Italian restaurant where students were able to implement all of the comma skills they had recently been exposed to.
My students had just learned six different uses for commas (appositives, words in a series, conjunctions, introductory words, nouns of direct address, and quotation marks) using the resource found HERE. This was a perfect way to informally assess their knowledge of comma usage using an engaging authentic assessment.
Prep:
At my nearest Party City and Dollar Tree, I spent less that $20 for all the materials. (Of course, you could always get these simple materials for FREE. Some ideas are to have parents donate these items or set up a Donors Choose project.)
Materials purchased:
- plastic cups (optional for flowers or "candles")
- plastic bowls
- pasta
- plaid plastic table clothes
- LED light "candles"
I also set up glue bottles on each table and a pink flower at the end of the table next to a sign that read, "Today's Specials: Commas and Periods."
Running the Activity:
Next, they read a text titled "All About Pizza," and added the missing commas and periods using pasta pieces that they would "dip" in the "alfredo sauce," also known as glue to adhere to their paper. Again, as they finished, they would wave me down, and I would check their work. If they were correct, they would move onto "Step 3." If they were incorrect, they would have to go back and review their work.
The last step was to create their own dish. Here, students had to write their own sentences using the directions given. For example, one task was to write a sentence that includes a comma to set off an introductory word.
Students who finished before others would become "hired help." They would walk around and assist me in checking the patrons work and assisting them when needed.
To add to the ambiance, I had a large welcome sign displayed on the projection board and Italian music found on YouTube playing in the background.
Examples:
- Quotation Marks
- Apostrophes
- Contractions
- Possessive Nouns
Have you tried any classroom transformations in your classroom? If so, I'd love to hear about it below.
Happy Teaching!
Can you let me know where you found the Chefs hat on TPT? I'd love to buy the product too, to make some for my students!!
ReplyDeleteHi. The chef's hat was not purchased on TPT. I only bought one, and bought it off of Amazon. I hope that answers your question. =)
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