Writing about the Holidays

[Anna J. Small Roseboro]

So many families celebrate different holidays at this time of year that it would be a shame to miss the opportunity to have students mine their memories and write personal narratives or short fiction based on these experiences.  This also can be a wonderful time to talk about the distinctive cultural features that reflect traditions from across the nation and around the world.

I imagine you all will be surprised at the different ways families celebrate some of the same holidays.  No need to remind any of you sensitive professionals that this can be an emotional mine-field if students are required to write only non-fiction.  I'd recommend using words like "based on what you've experienced or observed..."

Here's a Writing about Holidays assignment to get you started designing lessons that fit into your curriculum and work well in your school community.