November is such an exciting time of the year! Between the changing weather and seeing family for Thanksgiving, there is so much to look forward to. However, this does mean it can be a bit tricky to keep students focused and engaged. Thankfully, adding Thanksgiving art and writing to lessons helps students channel their excitement into learning. With the suggestions below, students will love learning and celebrating with their classmates.
Thanksgiving to Friendsgiving
When students head home for break, they see family, watch the big parade, and eat tons of food. So, it is obvious why they love Thanksgiving! However, they can still celebrate with friends in the classroom with Friendsgiving! This is just like Thanksgiving but with your friends. So, let’s explore some fun Thanksgiving art and writing activities to add festivity to the classroom.
Alternatives to Food
While some classrooms plan a turkey lunch, this has become stressful with allergies, food issues, and rising costs. Since students love snacks, there are ways to get creative! For example, students can still have snacks from an approved list of items. Parents are so generous if you ask them to send something in!
Students can make placemats before eating. They love to draw pictures and write about what they are thankful for. After, students can share with a classmate and even set goals for the future. To show appreciation for classmates, every student can make one card for a pre-selected classmate. They can write about all the great qualities their classmate has. It is helpful to brainstorm this together. After everyone shares, friends can all have a safe snack together.
Thanksgiving Projects
In addition to a festive snack, there are many ways to incorporate Thanksgiving art and writing into the classroom.
FREE Thankful Turkey Project
It is crucial that students understand Thanksgiving is about being thankful for what they have. So, this free activity is the perfect way to combine Thanksgiving art and writing. There are two versions of a turkey picture for students to color and a lower section for writing. After students finish, they can hang up their turkeys for a beautiful bulletin board display! Plus, it is the perfect craft for students to take home before break to show their families what they are thankful for.
November Math Puzzles
Students love puzzles! So, adding math to them is a fantastic way to build their understanding. This resource has 4 seasonal self-checking puzzles, each with 6 differentiated versions. Additionally, there are 2 seasonal Color by Number pages and 5 journal writing sheets. Teachers can pick which math skill to work on, and then students create it by cutting apart nine square pieces. After answering a problem, they will glue the picture on its matching answer. If they place it in an incorrect spot, the picture will not look right. Students love seeing their pictures come together!
November Craft Projects
Crafts are such a fun way to incorporate hands-on activities with writing skills. Thankfully, there are 8 easy art ideas that do not require a lot of prep or complex materials. Students will work on following directions using step-by-step photos and descriptions. There is even an optional writing template.
November is such a fun, spirited month in the classroom! These Thanksgiving art and writing activities are the perfect way to celebrate with friends!
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