Dogs in School: Persuading the Principal
School: Academy School
City/State: West Brattleboro, VT
Grade(s): 1
Format(s): Video: Project documentation
Subject(s): English Language Arts, Health and Wellness
Project Overview
First-grade students at the Academy School in West Brattleboro, Vermont were intrigued to find out that their teacher's dog had been part of the classroom at her previous school. They wanted to ask their principal if he would consider allowing a dog in their classroom. The students faces lit up with excitement at the idea of a classroom dog, naturally creating the perfect moment for their teacher to introduce persuasive essays.
Students worked together to gather evidence to support their claim that a classroom dog would benefit their community. In addition to writing individual essays to the principal, they produced this collective video of their work.
How This Project Can Be Useful
- Excellent example of a uniquely authentic product
- Engaging video that could be used as a model and impetus in many classrooms
- Highlights an interesting topic for elementary students and a nice entry point into the writing of persuasive essays
Common Core State Standards
| Standard | Long Term Learning Target |
|---|---|
| W.1.2 |
|
| W.1.7 |
|