Adjective Necklaces: Mini-lesson on Adjectives

Grade Level: 3rd Grade
Topic: Adjectives
Children’s Book:
Cannon, J. (1993). Stellaluna. New York: Scholastic, Inc.
Materials: yarn (20”-piece per student), Mostaccioli noodles (8-12 per student),
permanent markers of various colors, example of finished necklace, poster
of some of the adjectives used in the story
Introduction:
We have been learning about the parts of speech. Today, we will be learning more about adjectives. Adjectives modify nouns or pronouns to make our writing more interesting. When we include adjectives in our sentences, it is like turning a black and white photo into a brightly colored one. We are going to read a book that uses adjectives to make the story more exciting. Read the Book.
Review: Review the characteristics of the characters and the setting in the story.
Application:
Show the poster with adjectives from the story to the students. Discuss how the adjectives made the story seem more interesting. Show the students the example of the “adjective necklace” you made based on the description of a character in the story.
Guided Practice:
Tell the students they are going to choose a character or a setting from the story to describe with adjectives. They will then use their description to create an “adjective necklace.”
Assessment:
The necklaces will be checked to see if they contain adjectives and are based on a character or setting from the story.
ESOL Adaptations: (I will refer to each student’s ESOL plan for additional accommodations.)
Level 1 and Level 2: I will provide graphic representation of the topics taught, permit the students to work with a partner, and will allow extra time to complete tasks.
Level 3: I will permit the students to work with a partner, and I will allow extra time to complete tasks.
Level 4: I will permit the students to work with a partner, if needed.