After learning about the desert, students can listen to one of the many tapes available of nature sounds and write as they listen, and share their work in small groups. Students can practice observation skills essential to a writer by spending time outdoors and recording in their small poetry notebook what they hear and see in preparation for writing. I love etymology including horticultural etymology, details such as the origin of the name tulip possibly coming from the Arabic dulband meaning turban. After learning about the origin of the name poinsettia , have students read about flower folklore and write a story based on their research or create a name for an imaginary flower and write and illustrate that story. The flower could, of course, be named after themselves or their friends which could lead to some interesting descriptions.
Humans enjoy celebrations.
Have students study celebrations around the globe and share a holiday celebration important to their family. Students can learn about legends and either re-tell a legend, particularly one native to their area or place of birth, or create their own legends. Learning to make desert sand paintings provides an opportunity to teach about native cultures and the art of the Southwest. Students enjoy writing group poems on a theme such as, Listen to the Playground. Students can research early musical instruments of the Americas, make their own and use them to accompany the words.