Incorporating Play into Reading and Writing: A Successful Lesson in Creative Expression
Incorporating play into literacy lessons can take many forms, and one lesson that proved especially successful was an activity designed to help students reflect on and deepen their understanding of a story through creative expression. After a partner read session, students were given the option to express their thinking in one of three ways: drawing, building, or acting out what they had learned. This approach allowed them to process the text in a tactile and kinesthetic way, reinforcing their comprehension in a manner that felt both fun and meaningful.
For this lesson, we used three familiar mentor texts: Three Billy Goats Gruff, Caps for Sale, and Corduroy. After reading with a partner, the students could choose whether to work independently or continue collaborating with their partner. The activities that followed allowed students to engage with the material at a deeper level:
Drawing: Some students chose to represent their thoughts visually, sketching scenes, characters, or events from the stories.
Building: Others opted to express their thinking through construction, using LEGOs or magnet toys to build scenes or structures that reflected key elements of the story.
Acting: A few students engaged in dramatic play, acting out scenes or character interactions from the texts.
The ability to choose the method of expression was empowering for the students, allowing them to tap into their strengths and preferences. While most students gravitated toward drawing or building, the activity offered valuable insights into how they process and internalize information.
At the end of the lesson, two groups shared their creations with the class. One group had built a mini version of the Three Billy Goats Gruff bridge with LEGOs, while another group acted out the climax of Caps for Sale, using expressive movements and voices to bring the story to life. Sharing these creations helped students articulate their thinking, practice speaking in front of a group, and celebrate their creativity.
This lesson reinforced the idea that play-based learning can be a powerful tool in literacy instruction. It gave students the opportunity to engage with the material in a way that was both enjoyable and educational, fostering a deeper connection to the texts and encouraging a love of reading and storytelling.