Creative writing and fictional narratives combining Science and Art

OBJECTIVE
To write a story using elements based on Scientific observations that they have done.

INTRODUCTION
Students must have had science lessons on parts of a plant and plant reproduction or on the characteristics of different animals and insects. Louis Comfort Tiffany was a lover of nature, which is evident in his art work. Art Nouveau reflects the theme of nature in Art. Since Science is a major content area and children take a state test, this is a wonderful form of authentic assessment to evaluate what they have learned.

MATERIALS
Notes from the plant or animal observations that the class has done

PROCEDURE
Once students have a concrete foundation of plant or animal characteristics, they should be able to use that information to form wonderfully creative writing pieces. Prior to beginning the activity, give an informal review of the information that the class was able to gather from the scientific observations. They may use any models or drawings that they made of plants and insects from previous activities to accompany their stories. You may also choose to read an example of a creative narrative to the children (Waiting for Wings by Lois Ehlert, The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle).

After the discussion, have the students try to create a story to accompany their chosen plant or insect. Their stories can tell of the different parts of the plants or insects and how they travel or move about or interact with the elements that are around them. The students may work alone or in pairs. They should also edit their drafts before publishing a final version of their story.

ASSESSMENT
The final written piece will serve as a good assessment of the activity. Were the students able to write the narrative? Did they struggle or did they enjoy the exercise? Were they able to edit their own work?

FOLLOW-UP
Presentation of narratives in a writing celebration

LEARNING STANDARDS
Information about state and national Learning Standards is available at http://www.topicseducation.com/links.htm. Please note: selecting this link will open a new browser window on your computer.

INTERDISCIPLINARY CONNECTIONS
Literacy
Art
Science