Back to Writings

Get A Clue: Trilobites

School: Genesee Community Charter School

City/State: Rochester, NY

Grade(s): 1

Format(s): Children's book

Subject(s): English Language Arts, Science and Technology

Type(s): Informative/Explanatory

Writing Assignment Description

First grade students at the Genesee Valley Community Charter School in Rochester, New York created a children’s book as part of a learning expedition on fossils and local geological history.

Students worked with a partner from first grade, as well as a fifth grade buddy and a parent assistant to research a living or non-living thing from prehistory. Students then wrote and illustrated a book page on their topic with scientific evidence of its existence.

How This Writing Can Be Useful

  • Compelling example of cross-age partnerships
  • Visually engaging product that nicely combines student artwork and writing
  • Demonstrates descriptive writing at a first grade level
  • Excellent example of young students citing scientific evidence from their own research

Relevant Resources

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.1.2
  • I can include an ending to my informational text.
W.1.5
  • With support from adults, I can revise my writing by adding details.
W.1.6
  • With support from adults, I can use digital tools to publish my writing.
Back to Writings