by Brianna Ware Do your students/children struggle with getting their ideas on paper? Do you notice them having a lot to say verbally, but only putting the bare minimum on the page when writing? If you said yes to either question, let me tell you about a brainstorming strategy called Brain Blast, a brainstorming activity that allows students to get their thoughts on paper without the fear of putting down the wrong answer. How does Brain Blast work? The teacher provides a topic, and sets a timer. I recommend starting with two minutes the first time you try this activity. Once the timer is started, students jot down everything they can think of that is related to the topic. Once you feel your students are ready for the next step, have them go back to their brainstorming pages and choose an idea they would like to say more about. Hopefully, their writing will flow more easily when they select topic on their list that interests them. Completing Brain Blasts frequently helps students become more comfortable with getting their ideas on paper. It is particularly important to model this strategy for the children before asking them to complete a Brain Blast. While modeling, be sure to make intentional spelling errors, and do not use your neatest handwriting. The key is to show students that getting ideas on paper is the most important part of this activity. Remember to praise the students for their efforts while they are working on a Brain Blast! Below I have included an example that I created along with some student examples. You will see the topic listed at the top of the page. I hope Brain Blasts help your children/students become better writers!
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