Welles Crowther was an ordinary man who possessed extraordinary traits. For this activity, after reading and discussing The Red Bandanna, students will create a spider map that identifies 3 of Welles’ traits. Students should then write a brief explanation of how Welles exemplified each chosen trait. Teachers may choose to provide a list of traits for students to choose from, or have them choose on their own.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that identifies and describes 3 of Welles Crowther’s traits.
Student Instructions:
Begin by conveying the significance of language used in written text to the students. Explain to them how the slight change in the choice of words can create a larger impact. For example, consider word nuances and how they can completely change the tone and atmosphere of the text. Ask the students to share examples of any such instances that they have come across.
Ask the students to select an idea that they feel strongly about and want other people to understand their feelings through the written content. For instance, talking about the environment, history or current events. Students can even share their reviews about a book or a movie.
Tell the students that an informative text always starts with facts. These facts can be statistics or numbers, any research performed by a well-known institution or any piece of news from a credible source. Students can always connect their ideas with interesting research for their credibility.
Encourage the students to make use of figurative language and elements in their writings. These elements can help the audience imagine the scenarios exactly how the writers want to convey them. They also make the writing more interesting and help convey the complex ideas more easily.
Teach the students how to arrange their thoughts and facts. To plan their writing, they can utilize tools such as outlines, thought maps, and visual organizers. An important part of conveying information is to arrange it in an understandable manner.
Survivors and rescue workers recognized Welles for putting a red bandanna over his nose and mouth as a makeshift filter to shield himself from smoke and dust. His bravery was symbolized by this bandanna, which was gifted to Welles by his father. Though Welles lost his life, he was still remembered for his heroic acts through this bandanna.
On 9/11, Welles utilized his prior skills as a volunteer firefighter and knowledge of the World Trade Center to assist and lead others to safety. Before the skyscraper fell, he is said to have saved at least 18 lives. Welles had always been passionate about being a firefighter and was waiting for the right moment to pursue his dream.