In which I reveal I'm a Word Search Grinch....

So, the reports are under control (or they will be soon)  and we're ready for some fun. So are our students. More than ready! But, of course, we're 21st Century educators and we're all on board with making the most of the valuable learning time remaining until Christmas.  And so the cry goes out - "Break out the Find-A-Words!"

Sigh.

I think this is one Christmas tradition that we can quietly retire.  A find-a-word is a fun way to while away a long train journey - well, it was before we had mobile phones. (Oops showing my age again! ) Does that make word-searches the new retro hipster thing now? Hmmm.....maybe there's a market..... but not for school! At this time of year, the Christmas word search book should be a stocking filler not a classroom time filler.

'Tis the Season to Imagine! What better time to spark some imaginative writing integrated with art and design? Choose just one of these these tasks for a class brainstorm and watch the creative ideas fly. Even reluctant writers will be inspired by these Christmas Writing and Design prompts which are a little bit different to the traditional letter to Santa. Use as task cards for individual choice extension or develop a whole lesson sequence around them. Each task which can be scaffolded to address a variety of needs and abilities as students develop their skills with imaginative and persuasive texts. Students will be able to work individually or collaboratively in small groups or on a class-wide project.

This collection of eight creative Christmas prompts includes something for a variety of interests, from the future automotive (or aeronautic) designers, to the fashion-conscious, to the foodies. A range of texts are suggested, including personal narratives, plays, poetry, comic strip, and screen and paper-based advertising.

Check out  "Tis the Season to Imagine!" writing and design prompts for your class and retire the find-a-words. Give the photocopier a rest. Save them for your next long trip and save on phone data and battery too!