Using “Action Sketch Templates” to Explain Storylines Paul and Sheila Wellstone Elementary Saint Paul Public Schools November 6, 2010

Introductions FredericaMaria

Our Shared Paths Transition from secondary to elementary Different worlds Not an obstacle, but an opportunity for us to prepare the students with core reading skills and strategies

What is the Action Sketch? Maria’s observations of what the template did to make the story elements accessible to ELL students. Template is tied to academic standards Frederica’s brief explanation of “Action Sketch” evolution Dynamic tool versus static worksheet Versatile

Original Sketch

Modeling Sketch Maria explains activity Student reads story Frederica models on marker board Audience listens and sketches along

The Greedy Goat Sketch

Research on Graphic Organizers

Samples of Graphic Organizers

The Power and Potential of an “Action Sketch” Template It helps all students visualize the flow of the plot and the interconnection of elements It can be used with: –Most books that students have never read –Book reports –School presentations and plays –Creation of own stories –Essays on heroes and heroines

How to do it? Frederica explains step by step: –Setting: Time and Place –Main character –Problem: Obstacle, opportunity, conflict –Solution: Fix, overcome, end result –Situation

The Sketch is a Tool, not a Worksheet Use as a formative assessment Revise as necessary for the next level of instruction Teachable moments Video

Students Using Sketch Students explaining the elements of a story using the sketch Students’ presentations are assessment for speaking skills and articulation of content

Closing Remarks and Questions The action sketch template is a teaching tool. It can be used for formative assessments Use what is best for your students Let us know. Please share!