Back to Projects

What Matters to Me: In the Hearts and Minds of Elementary School Students

School: Mary O. Pottenger School

City/State: Springfield, MA

Grade(s): 4

Format(s): Book: Nonfiction/Informational

Subject(s): English Language Arts, Social Studies, Visual Arts

Project Overview

Fourth Grade students at Mary O. Pottenger School in Springfield, MA created this book as part of an expedition on American Immigration.  Believing that everyone, including immigrants and young children have something to offer, students created this collection of essays and self-portraits as a chance to demonstrate what is important to them.

Based on a project of the same name from Duggan Middle School, each student created a two-page entry which includes a realistic self-portrait and a piece about what matters to him or her.  

This book is professionally printed and bound. 

Relevant Resources

What Matters To Me
Pieces of Me

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.4.1
  • I can write an opinion piece that supports a point of view with reasons and information.
L.4.1
  • I can use grammar conventions to send a clear message to a reader or listener.
L.4.2
  • I can use conventions to send a clear message to my reader.
Back to Projects