Lesson Plan Overview
In this activity, students will be challenged to write a story about the given prompt, using vivid verbs and descriptive language.
Students will be given a prompt to use as a jumping off point about a hamster who escapes from its cage and has a plan in mind for how it wants to spend its day.
Teachers can use the given four-cell storyboard format, or teachers can choose to have students write a more detailed story using a 6-cell plot diagram.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
The hamster escaped his cage again, and this time he had a plan…
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard with four cells to describe what kind of adventure your hamster goes on that day.
Instructions:
- Click “Use This Template”.
- In the first cell, write about your hamster including its name, its personality, and how it escaped its cage.
- Create a picture that illustrates your hamster’s escape.
- In the next three cells, write about your hamster’s adventure using vivid verbs and descriptive details.
- Add illustrations to each cell to go along with your responses. Be creative and have fun!
- Click “Save and Exit” when you are done.
Be sure to use complete sentences, proper spelling and punctuation, and check your work!
Need help getting started? Watch our instructional video!
Lesson Plan Reference
Lesson Plan Overview
In this activity, students will be challenged to write a story about the given prompt, using vivid verbs and descriptive language.
Students will be given a prompt to use as a jumping off point about a hamster who escapes from its cage and has a plan in mind for how it wants to spend its day.
Teachers can use the given four-cell storyboard format, or teachers can choose to have students write a more detailed story using a 6-cell plot diagram.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
The hamster escaped his cage again, and this time he had a plan…
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard with four cells to describe what kind of adventure your hamster goes on that day.
Instructions:
- Click “Use This Template”.
- In the first cell, write about your hamster including its name, its personality, and how it escaped its cage.
- Create a picture that illustrates your hamster’s escape.
- In the next three cells, write about your hamster’s adventure using vivid verbs and descriptive details.
- Add illustrations to each cell to go along with your responses. Be creative and have fun!
- Click “Save and Exit” when you are done.
Be sure to use complete sentences, proper spelling and punctuation, and check your work!
Need help getting started? Watch our instructional video!
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Hamster’s Day Out
How to Scaffold Story Planning for Reluctant Writers
Break down the story into manageable parts and provide sentence starters or prompts for each cell. This helps hesitant students organize ideas and gain confidence as they fill in one section at a time.
Model Brainstorming Ideas as a Class
Lead a group brainstorm about possible hamster adventures and escape methods. Shared discussion sparks creativity and gives all students a bank of ideas to draw from.
Incorporate Peer Sharing for Feedback
Pair students to share storyboards and suggest one vivid verb or detail for each other. Peer feedback encourages collaboration and helps students add depth to their writing.
Celebrate Finished Stories With a Gallery Walk
Display completed storyboards around the classroom and have students walk around to read and comment. This boosts motivation by giving students an audience and recognizing creative effort.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hamster’s Day Out
What is the 'Hamster’s Day Out' writing activity for students?
Hamster’s Day Out is a creative writing lesson where students imagine and write a story about a hamster escaping its cage and going on an adventure, using vivid verbs and descriptive language. The activity encourages storytelling, creativity, and proper grammar.
How do I use the four-cell storyboard template for the hamster story?
To use the four-cell storyboard template, students describe the hamster, its escape, and its adventure in four illustrated sections. The first cell introduces the hamster, while the other three focus on the adventure using detailed sentences and creative drawings.
What are some tips for helping students write with vivid verbs and descriptive language?
Encourage students to replace simple verbs with more expressive ones (e.g., 'scurried' instead of 'ran') and add sensory details about what the hamster sees, hears, and feels. Use brainstorming or word banks to inspire descriptive writing.
Can I adapt the activity for older or more advanced students?
Yes, teachers can adapt the activity by using a 6-cell plot diagram for a more detailed story, prompting students to explore character development, plot twists, and richer vocabulary suitable for older learners.
Where can I find an instructional video for the Hamster’s Day Out lesson?
An instructional video is available to help teachers and students get started with the activity. Check the lesson page or resource section for the video link and guidance on using the template.
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