Groundhogs Day is right around the corner, and I just began to think of all the ways we could write about them in my ELL classroom. With a variety of levels, languages, and grade levels, I wanted to come up with a couple of different ways my students can write and learn about groundhogs while using my newest writing craftivity, The Curious Groundhog Book. With about a week or so until the big day, these writing prompts can easily be added into your plans now with enough time for students to do some research before we find out if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not.
All of these prompts can be used easily on any of your Groundhogs Day plan but I especially think they will look adorable in this craftivity book!
1. Making predictions about the groundhog's shadow
Before Punxsutawney Phil makes his appearance, students can easily begin to make predictions of the weather by checking for patterns, tracking the weather or simply by making a guess. Have them back up their claim with full sentences using what they know already! I'm going to be using this site to show my students the history of his decisions!2. Reflecting & tracking of the groundhog's prediction
After the announcement is made, students can use this books (or any type of paper) to track their personal prediction to see who is right and who was misguided. They can keep a graph on how many days it takes until spring comes and write about their data too!
3. Fun facts & information about groundhogs
There are tons of sites dedicated to fun facts of groundhogs in kid friendly language! Here is a bunch below:- ▶ Fun Groundhog Facts for Kids from Kids Play & Create
- ▶ Groundhogs from National Geographic
- ▶ 14 Fun Facts About Groundhogs from Sarah's Science
- ▶ Groundhog Day from Fact Monster
4. Describe what it would look like in a groundhog's house
This one is where students can get a little creative! Show them a picture of a real groundhog coming out of a hole and have them visual what they think their hole leads to! They can use describing words to explain how the groundhog's house is set up and even compare it to their own homes.
5. Describe why the groundhog shouldn't be scared of his shadow
Your kiddos can use their reasoning to explain why groundhogs should not be scared of their shadows. You could even go outside and see if your students can see their own shadows and explain the some ways they might get over this fear!
So, what are your plans for Groundhogs day? How do you celebrate in the classroom, if at all? What about the following days after Punxsutawney Phil's citing? I would love to know more about your classroom! If you found this useful and want to share with your other teacher friends, pin the image below!
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