Writing Lab I: Sowing the Seeds of Self-Expression
- Description
- Curriculum
- Reviews
- Grade
Welcome to Writing Lab I, where words take root and creativity blooms! In this hands-on hybrid course, students discover that writing is more than putting words on paper, it’s a process of planting ideas, nurturing imagination, and harvesting stories worth sharing.
Throughout the semester, we’ll explore the full writing cycle through seasonal themes that mirror the growth of a garden:
-
September – The Sowing Phase: Building confidence, exploring ideas, and learning to see ourselves as writers.
-
October – The Growing Phase: Developing narrative and informational writing through engaging, real-world prompts.
-
November – The Nurturing Phase: Revising, editing, and refining our work with care and detail.
-
December – The Harvest: Sharing polished pieces in our Winter Showcase!
Learning Goals:
By the end of this course, students will:
-
Understand the structure and purpose of different types of writing.
-
Use sensory detail, sequencing, and story elements effectively.
-
Build stamina, confidence, and pride in their writing.
-
Participate in a supportive writing community, in person and online.
Format:
This is a hybrid course with both in-person and online lessons. Students who miss a class can always access materials, assignments, and videos right here in the LMS.
Recommended Ages: Grades K-5 (multi-level adaptations provided).
-
1
Welcome to Writing Lab IIntroduction to our “Sow & Grow” theme: just like plants need soil, sun, and water, writers need ideas, practice, and encouragement.
-
2
Meet Your TeacherWatch a short video about your instructor’s favorite kind of writing and one challenge she's faced in writing.
-
3
Tools of a Writer
Learn about the essential “gardening tools” for writing.
-
4
Seed Packet TemplateDownload and view the “My Writing Self” seed packet. This is a reminder of the kind of writer you are becoming.
-
5
My Writing Seed Packet -
6
Tools of a WriterMatch each writing tool with its use. Which of the following is NOT a writing tool? Short answer: “What seed will you plant as a writer this semester?”
-
7
Planting Ideas for Writing
Learn how writers collect and grow ideas through senses, questions, and prompts.
-
8
Fall Sensory Word Bank & Activity
Use your senses to make your writing more descriptive and alive.
-
9
“Sensory Walk” Guided Prompt -
10
Picture Prompt Inspiration
Use pictures as seeds for your stories by imagining who, what, where, why, when, and how.
-
11
How to Use the Seed Jar
Learn how to collect and grow writing ideas at home using your very own Seed Jar.
-
12
Sensory Walk Sheet
-
13
Picture Prompt Sheet
-
14
Descriptive Writing Review
-
15
Story Elements
Learn the parts every story needs: characters, setting, problem, and solution.
-
16
Writing the First Draft
Use your Story Garden plan to grow your first draft, step by step.
-
17
Assignment 1 (Week 3): Story Garden Plan
-
18
Planning with the Story Garden
Plot your ideas in the Story Garden to plan your story step by step.
-
19
Revising for Detail
Strengthen your story by adding sensory details and using “Show, Don’t Tell.
-
20
Assignment 2 (Week 4): Narrative Draft
-
21
Review: Story ElementsThis quiz checks what you know about the parts of a story and how they grow in sequence.
Course Title: Writing Lab I: Sowing the Seeds of Self-Expression
Instructor: Mrs. Leonard
Course Type: Hybrid (In-person + Online Access)
Program Pathway: Sow N Grow Enrichment – Language Arts
Grade Levels: K–5 (multi-level instruction)
Duration: 1 Semester (September–December)
In-Person Class Schedule: Tuesdays | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Sow N Grow Higher Learning Academy, Conyers, GA 30013
Online Access: Available anytime via learn.sowngrow.org
Materials Included: Writing journal, story planning sheets, fine motor kits, and printable downloads
Instructor Contact: Click to Message | l.leonard@sowngrow.org
Attendance & Communication
-
In-person attendance is encouraged for best results.
-
If your child will be absent, please inform Mrs. Leonard at least 2 hours before class so materials and make-up guidance can be prepared.
-
Missed lessons and assignments can be completed through the online platform.
Materials
Each student should have:
-
A dedicated binder or folder labeled Writing Lab I for class handouts and journal pages.
-
A writing journal (provided or personal).
-
Pencil and eraser brought each week.
Participation
-
Students are expected to bring their creativity and curiosity each week!
-
Work may include individual, small-group, and hands-on writing activities.
-
Respectful listening and encouragement of peers are essential to maintaining our “Writing Garden” atmosphere.
Parent Support
-
Encourage your child to share their work and ideas at home.
-
Help them maintain their binder and check the online platform weekly for updates or printable materials.
Writing Lab I is designed for young writers who are in the early-to-developing stages of writing confidence and comprehension. While materials are created with K–5 students in mind, placement in this lab is based on each learner’s current skills, stamina, and understanding, not strictly by age or grade.
Within this course, we use a three-level system to make writing accessible and challenging for everyone:
-
Level 1 – Emerging Writers: Beginning to form sentences and express ideas through words and drawings.
-
Level 2 – Developing Writers: Writing simple stories or paragraphs with guidance, building grammar and structure skills.
-
Level 3 – Independent Writers: Writing cohesive stories or reports, revising with detail and purpose.
This approach allows every student to grow at their own pace within a supportive, collaborative environment.
✨ Students who show readiness for more advanced writing analysis, structure, or extended projects may transition into Writing Lab II or Writing Lab III for continued growth and challenge.
Google