I understand in the past there has been a mystery reader program of sorts in many classrooms at Mann. I would like to do a similar classroom extension activity with the help of all our classroom parents. I would like to have a Mystery Speaker program designed to inspire students to write. Fourth grade focuses a lot of effort on improving writing skills with strategies and structured activities. Writing practice and inspiration are two helpful ways to motivate children to improve writing skills. A mystery speaker would be similar to an old fashioned “career day” event where a parent/guardian/adult comes into the classroom to talk with students about their profession, education, life experiences or anything else that you might see fit to motivate children to write. I would also like for speakers to prepare a writing prompt or question that students can respond to immediately following a presentation. Just like your children have very special abilities, skills and experiences to offer our classroom, so too do their parents!
This does not have to be an overly formal undertaking but can be whatever you make it. I am willing to assist with anything you might need to speak/present. The times that work best for our classroom schedule are Mondays from 12:45-1:05pm with writing time to immediately follow from about 1:05-1:25pm. You do not need to stay for the writing time but are welcome to stay. Lectures/presentations do not need to last 20 minutes but should be engaging and thought provoking for fourth grade students. Be creative, exciting, and most of all make it valuable for children! If you enjoy it, the students will too!
If you are interested in taking part in this program to enrich our classroom writing and social studies activities, please pick a date from the list below that works with your schedule. With your help, this program can be a great success! The schedule is a first request basis.
November 29; December 13; January 3, 10; February 7, 14, 28; March 14, 21; April 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23
I am willing to extend this activity to any adult you know that is willing to volunteer! 