Second-graders at Sherwood spent five weeks on a nonfiction writer’s workshop unit, working vigorously to create their own nonfiction animal books. Each child utilized a variety of sources – from other books to magazines and the Internet – in researching specific details about his or her selected animal. Reflecting the key features of nonfiction, the students’ books included tables of contents, glossaries, sources, diagrams and maps.

“When children are excited about learning, the results are truly amazing,” said teacher Robb Le Vien, whose class commemorated the workshop with a book-sharing celebration. “My class was motivated from day one and worked hard during each session of writer’s workshop. I could not be prouder of the outstanding work the class produced.”