Tuhituhi / Writing

Here’s a Holiday Recount Writing Lesson Plan aligned with Phase 2 English in the New Zealand Curriculum for Year 5 and 6 students. It focuses on structuring ideas clearly, using an expanding vocabulary, and applying correct grammar and sentence structures.

Lesson Plan: Writing a Holiday Recount

Curriculum Area: English (Writing)

Phase: 2 (Years 5 & 6)

Strand:

Ideas: Structure a recount to sequence and organise experiences logically.

Language Features: Use correct grammar, sentence structures, and vocabulary to describe experiences clearly.

Text Features: Use time connectives, descriptive language, and varied sentence starters to engage the reader.

Lesson Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

✅ Plan and write a structured recount about their holiday experience.

✅ Use time connectives (e.g., First, Next, After that, Finally).

✅ Include details to describe people, places, and events.

✅ Use correct punctuation, grammar, and sentence structures.

Success Criteria

✔ My recount has a clear structure (Orientation, Events, Conclusion).

✔ I use time connectives to show the sequence of events.

✔ I include descriptive words and details to engage the reader.

✔ I check my punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure.

Lesson Structure (60 minutes)

1. Introduction (10 min) – Discuss & Model

Brainstorm: What makes a great recount? (Students share ideas on structure and features).

Model Writing: Teacher models a short holiday recount, demonstrating:

A strong orientation (who, where, when, what).

A well-sequenced series of events using time connectives.

A conclusion that reflects on the experience.

Think-Pair-Share: Students discuss their best holiday moments with a partner.

2. Planning (15 min) – Graphic Organizer

Provide a Recount Writing Plan (KWL, Flow Chart, or Paragraph Plan).

Students plan their recount by answering:

Where did you go?

Who was with you?

What was the best part?

What challenges did you face?

How did you feel?

3. Writing (25 min) – Drafting

Students write their first draft, focusing on structure and ideas.

Encourage descriptive language and varied sentence starters.

Use a checklist for self-review.

4. Peer Review & Editing (10 min)

Peer Feedback: Swap with a partner and check for clarity, punctuation, and description.

Final Edits: Students improve their writing based on feedback.

Assessment & Next Steps

📌 Formative Assessment: Teacher provides feedback on structure, vocabulary, and grammar.

📌 Next Steps: Students publish their best recount (Google Docs, class blog, illustrated booklet).

Teacher Model: My Sushi Train Experience

Last summer, during our holiday in Canberra, my family and I enjoyed a delicious meal at Sushi Train in Garema Place. My husband and I were excited to share this experience with our daughter, son-in-law, and their two children, James and Juliet. The atmosphere was lively, and the sight of sushi plates moving along the conveyor belt instantly caught the children's attention.

As we settled into our seats, James and Juliet eagerly watched the sushi glide past. “Look at that one!” James exclaimed, pointing at a brightly coloured salmon roll. We all took turns picking our favourites—fresh sashimi, crispy tempura rolls, and steaming bowls of miso soup. My personal favourite was the teriyaki chicken roll, which had the perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours.

Halfway through our meal, we challenged each other to try something new. My husband bravely tasted octopus sushi, while Juliet giggled as she attempted to use chopsticks for the first time. It was wonderful seeing everyone enjoy themselves, sharing laughter and delicious food.

After finishing our meal, we stepped outside into the warm evening air, feeling full and happy. It was more than just a meal—it was a special moment of connection and joy with family. I can’t wait to go back to Sushi Train the next time we visit Canberra!

This model includes:

✅ Clear structure (Orientation, Events, Conclusion)

✅ Time connectives (Last summer, As we settled, Halfway through, After finishing)

✅ Descriptive language (fresh sashimi, crispy tempura rolls, steaming bowls of miso soup)

✅ Dialogue and personal reflection to make it engaging

Would you like any adjustments or additions to match your preferred writing style? 😊