The Lesson - Functional writing.
Learning Intention: to write instructions.
(the context: a children's game e.g pass the parcel, musical chairs etc.)
Anyway, as an attention grabbing introduction we play 'pass the parcel'. Then using my best acting I come in as Zig from the planet Zurg. I'm trying to get to the point where the kids agree it would be better to write down the instructions for this game. The conversation goes like this:-
Teacher (as Zig) - Hiya. What you doing?
Wee Girl (happy she's been asked) - playing Pass the Parcel
teacher - what's that?
Wee girl - it's a game.
teacher - how do you play it?
Wee girl - well, you get a present, wrap it in some paper, put on some music, pass the parcel round until the music stops (and so on)
(here I come again this time as Zag from the same planet)
Teacher (as Zag) - Hiya. What you doing?
Wee Girl (frowning) - playing Pass the Parcel
teacher - what's that?
Wee girl(sighing) - it's a game.
teacher - how do you play it?
Wee girl - well, you get a present, wrap it some paper, put on some music, (etc.)
(now i'm Zog)
Teacher (as Zog) - Hiya. What you doing?
Wee Girl (not happy now, and beginning to raise her voice) - playing Pass the Parcel
teacher - what's that?
Wee girl - it's a game.
teacher - how do you play it?
Wee girl (had enough now) - LOOK I'VE JUST TOLD YOUR TWO PALS. WHY DON'T YOU ASK THEM?!!!