Writing a Friendly Letter

Title: Writing a Friendly Letter

Subject: Writing

Summary: This lesson will teach third-grade students how to write a friendly letter. They will learn the format, purpose, and key elements of a friendly letter, and practice writing their own letters.

Learning Outcomes:

• Know the format and purpose of a friendly letter
• Understand the key elements of a friendly letter
• Can write a friendly letter using appropriate language and structure

Methodology:

This lesson will be taught using a combination of direct instruction, class discussions, and hands-on activities. Students will be encouraged to actively participate and ask questions throughout the lesson.

Resources/Materials:

• Whiteboard or blackboard
• Markers or chalk
• Chart paper
• Sample friendly letters
• Pencils and paper

Instructions:

1. Begin the lesson by asking students if they have ever received a letter in the mail. Discuss the purpose of letters and why people write them.

2. Introduce the concept of a friendly letter. Explain that a friendly letter is a type of personal correspondence that is written to someone you know, such as a friend or family member.

3. Display a sample friendly letter on the board or chart paper. Point out the different parts of the letter, including the date, greeting, body, closing, and signature.

4. Discuss the purpose of each part of the letter. For example, the greeting is used to address the recipient, the body is where the main message is written, and the closing is used to end the letter politely.

5. Provide students with a handout or worksheet that outlines the format and key elements of a friendly letter. Review the handout together as a class.

6. Model the process of writing a friendly letter by composing one on the board or chart paper. Think aloud as you write, explaining your thought process and decision-making.

7. After modeling, give students an opportunity to practice writing their own friendly letters. Provide them with a prompt or topic to write about, such as their favorite hobby or a recent vacation.

8. Circulate around the classroom, offering support and guidance as students work on their letters. Encourage them to use the format and key elements discussed earlier.

9. Once students have finished writing their letters, allow them to share their work with a partner or the whole class. Encourage positive feedback and constructive suggestions.

10. Conclude the lesson by reviewing the key points and reinforcing the importance of clear and effective communication through writing.

Activities:

• Class discussion on the purpose of letters
• Analysis of sample friendly letters
• Handout or worksheet review
• Modeling the process of writing a friendly letter
• Independent writing of friendly letters
• Sharing and peer feedback

Assessment:

To assess student learning, you can:

• Collect and review students' written friendly letters for correct format and key elements
• Listen to students' class discussions and participation during the lesson
• Observe students' engagement and understanding during the activities

Compliance Standards:

This lesson aligns with the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.3.3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, descriptive details, and clear event sequences.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.3.4: With guidance and support from adults, produce writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task and purpose.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.3.10: Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.