On-Demand 14

Writing Situation:
National Teacher Appreciation Week is coming soon and the school newspaper is sponsoring a “Best Teacher” contest. Students may enter the name of any teacher they think deserves this award. The editor of the newspaper will select one teacher to be the contest winner.
Writing Directions:
Write an essay to send to the editor about a teacher you think is best. Support your ideas about why you think this teacher deserves the award.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
Many students enjoy playing video games or watching their favorite television shows. Some feel that violent games and television programs like wrestling or crime dramas negatively affect children. They feel children will repeat what they see or hear on the games or television. Others feel that students know the difference between real life and television or video games, and students will not be affected by seeing violence.
Writing Directions:
Should children be allowed to see violent television shows and play violent video games? After reading the situation, write a speech to share with your classmates in which you answer the question and explain your reasons. Give several examples to support your opinion.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
Older brothers and sisters can teach us lots of things. They can also boss us around and tell us what to do. Ultimately, though, we love them and are glad they are in our lives.
Writing Directions:
Think about a time your older brother or sister taught you an important life lesson. Write a story telling about this special time and what you learned from him or her. Be sure to use details describing this event. This story can be real or imagined.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
Summer is almost here and kids are going to have more free time to enjoy. Some kids like to spend time indoors, while others choose outdoor activities.
Writing Directions:
Tell a story sharing an outdoor event in which you took part in over your summer break. Be sure to include details.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
Today is National Stress Awareness Day, to make the public aware that stress is one of the most serious health problems in the world today. There are many healthy ways to combat stress: exercise, relaxation techniques, spending time doing a hobby, or taking a bubble bath!
Writing Directions:
After reading the situation, write an essay in which you explain two things or situations that stress you out the most and how you combat that stress. Give several examples to inform your audience on how to overcome stress.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
5th graders are publishing a school blog that includes topics of interest to students at your school. Many students at your school are interested in learning more about taking care of their pets.
Writing Directions:
Write a blog post to inform students on how to take care of their pets. Be sure to include information that will help them to be great pet owners.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative