Ever wondered what would happen if items we used everyday suddenly quit on us? Drew Daywalt envisions such an affair, with his imaginative children’s book called The Day the Crayons Quit. Humorously illustrated by Oliver Jeffers, this book is appropriate for any early elementary grade level. I used it this year for the first time in my 4th grade class as a mentor text for writing, and I could see it being used in such a way on up through jr. high.
I asked the children to imagine an item they used on a regular basis, and what it would say to them if it could talk? We first brainstormed some ideas on the overhead, then began writing. After writing, they were to draw a picture to go along with the writing. Click here: The Day the Crayons Quit for the instructions for this activity. Kids are given practice in the art of a personal letter, as well as perspective. Below are three of the more creative responses I got. Really cute and fun! Kids were totally into it!
Elementary Speaking 