Published Writing Party!

The day finally came where we got to celebrate finishing our published piece of writing from the Lucy Calkins writing series.  We have been working very hard to finish our information books and the kids really did great.  I had to work pretty hard to get all the books laminated with gold stars, but the kids loved them. 

Check out this great group of authors! 

I was brainstorming with my kiddos what they wanted to do for their celebration party and the ideas were pretty out there.  This is where the kids get to share and read each others stories.  It is a HUGE motivation for the kids to finish with their best work. The kids decided they wanted to have popcorn, juice, and build forts.  My first thought was, "Forts......not happening!" I soon realized that with flashlights and a little trust it would all be great.  I let them bring in flashlights, sheets from home, and a stuffed animal.  I game them 10 minutes to build forts with teams and it was some of the best teamwork I have ever seen.  They loved it and actually were reading the whole time and having fun.  Check out some of them in their forts. 

I am happy to say that the craziness of building forts in a small classroom is over, but it was sooooo worth it!  Now, off to opinion writing.  I wonder what they will come up with next? Do you do anything fun for publishing writing in your class? If so, share please!