Writing Briefcase

by Jodi Devine
(Sydney, Australia)

When I taught Kindergarten I used a writing briefcase to promote the value of writing and the link between school and home for the student.

I actually used my old school bag which was a 'case' (BACK IN 1980!). I filled it with pens, crayons, glitter, textas, glue, paper, cardboard, scissors and anything needed for writing. The students adored the briefcase and were delighted to take it home if chosen.

The students taking it home were asked to do just one thing - WRITE! As a class, we loved 'reading' the samples daily and the authors were extremely proud of their written work.

This of course, is not a new idea, but one that works. I have heard of teachers sending home a bear with a small disposable camera and the students are required to take photos and write about the bear's experience etc.

I believe these ideas help with encouraging students to value writing and of course the link between school and home is also improved.