District News

Sophomores learn to write children's books 

 

January, 2011

 

Kathryn Oeser may have discovered a hidden talent.

The Canajoharie High school sophomore and 17 of her English classmates recently created children’s books for Richele Simmons-Mollica’s class. The students learned the characteristics of children’s books after reading, analyzing and finally creating them.

Kathryn said she learned she’s more than capable of creating a children’s book. She filled her book, “The Majestic Forest,” with bright drawings and engaging text about a boy who goes into the woods for a class trip.

“This taught me to use creative senses and simple shapes,” Kathryn said. “I’m very creative when I set my mind to things.”

On Friday, Jan. 29, the students took their books to Ann Marie Murphy’s first grade class at the elementary school and read the books to her students.

Mrs. Mollica said she wanted to collaborate with the elementary school to give her students confidence.

“I also wanted the younger kids to see something the older kids did and see that they created something instead of buying it,” she said.

“My students were very motivated to do this. With the tenth grade, we wanted to break down the elements of a story and what makes them interesting and show students they have the capability to put one together.”

Dillon Oeser, was excited to read his book entitled “Gashloog’s Toy Car,” to the first grade students. The story centers on a boy named “Gashloog” who doesn’t listen to his parents and has his toy taken away.

“I want the kids to like it,” Dillon said. “I’m excited to see how they react.”