Letter Writing with a Twist

Taniya Henderson

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Letter Writing with a Twist

Enhance writing and creative thinking

In this lesson, students will learn the art of letter writing by composing letters to fictional characters or historical figures. This activity not only enhances writing skills but also encourages creative thinking as students imagine the perspectives and responses of their chosen characters. By engaging in this exercise, students will develop a deeper understanding of narrative voice and empathy, which are crucial skills in both writing and interpersonal communication.

Audience

Upper Elementary Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Enhance writing and creative thinking

Materials

Paper, Pens, Worksheet: Letter Writing Template, and Discussion: Creative Letter Writing

Step 1

Introduction to Letter Writing

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on the purpose and structure of letters.
Explain the difference between formal and informal letters.
Introduce the concept of writing to fictional characters or historical figures.

Step 2

Creative Writing Activity

25 mins

Distribute the 'Letter Writing Template' worksheet.
Instruct students to choose a fictional character or historical figure they admire or are curious about.
Guide them to write a letter to their chosen character, imagining what they would like to say or ask.
Encourage creativity and personal expression in their writing.

Step 3

Reflection and Sharing

10 mins

Invite students to share their letters with the class or in small groups.
Facilitate a discussion using the 'Creative Letter Writing' discussion questions.
Encourage students to reflect on what they learned about their chosen character and themselves through this exercise.

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Worksheet

Letter Writing Template

This worksheet provides a structured template to help students organize their thoughts and ideas when writing a letter to a fictional character or historical figure.

Who are you writing to and why did you choose them?

Think about what interests you about this character or figure.

What would you like to say or ask in your letter?

Consider what you admire or are curious about.

How do you think they would respond to your letter?

Imagine their personality and how they might reply.

Discussion

Creative Letter Writing

This discussion will help students reflect on their letter writing experience and explore the creative aspects of imagining responses from fictional or historical figures.

What was the most challenging part of writing your letter?

Encourage students to think about the difficulties in expressing their thoughts or imagining the character's perspective.

How did writing to a fictional or historical figure change your perspective on them?

Discuss how this exercise might have deepened their understanding or appreciation of the character.

What did you learn about yourself through this writing exercise?

Guide students to reflect on their own creative process and any new insights they gained.