A Picture Tells A Story

Each student received a piece of construction paper with a code written on it. When I shouted BEGIN, the students opened to a photo and wrote a 5-minute reflection piece. It could be a description, a narrative, a fantasy or realistic story, notes, song, poem or letter. Here is a beautiful example of a fabulous 5th grade writer...
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Title: The Typhoon
Author: Alyssa

"Dear Diary,

I was at home taking care of my 6-month little sister. Mother and Father were at work and I was hoping they would bring home some yummy crab. Then I felt a sudden draft. Cold wind isn't good for babies so I walked around looking for the open window.

"A typhoon is coming!" screamed someone. I didn't give it a second thought because last time they cried out a typhoon, it turned out to be a light rain. Besides, we learned that there hasn't been a typhoon in over 50 years. I picked up my sister and walked outside. There I saw a huge wave towering over us. Katie started crying but I could hear nothing. Suddenly, it went down. I ran as fast as I could.

On the way, I saw people running to the boat shack where extra boats are stored. I prayed to God hoping that my parents will make it to safety. I know that a small canoe couldn't stand a chance but all I could do was to hope. I reached the boat shack. Katie looked up into my face as to ask where we were headed, or if she counted on my to help us survive. I pulled out a narrow, long boat. There was some back up food and a bucket of water. I grabbed two oars and put Katie on the seat. So far, the village was just lightly flooded, but the water was still coming down strong. Only two feet of water hugged my ankles as I started to row toward the waters. I wanted desperately to find my parents.

"Don't go there!" shrieked the neighbors, but I kept rowing. A huge wave came when I realized what I was doing. I tried to row back, but the current of the barreling waves got too strong. I grabbed my sister and held her tight. As the waves continued to splash harsh against my face, I made sure Katie's eyes and mouth were closed. I pinched her nose to keep the water from drowning her. Everything blurred from the burn of the water clouding my sight. As I came up for more air, I checked to make sure Katie was still alive. I saw a large boat. I waved. I screamed for help and that is all I remember.

Next, I woke up looking into Mother's kind face. She was holding Katie who was fast asleep. Then Mother told me father was dead. I cried and cried. This horrible typhoon took the innocent life of my father. My mother took my hand and gazed at me with her sad, tired eyes. "You have always been my brave little girl. You saved Katie's life and I am so proud of you." It's hard to think about what I could've done for my father, but I am praying everyday that God is taking good care of my father as He is taking care of us.

I will keep writing because it is the only thing that helps me keep my mind clear."