About Seesaw Sign Up

Teachers, save “Writing: Show, Don't Tell” to assign it to your class.

Joshua Durey

Writing: Show, Don't Tell

Grades: 4th Grade
Subjects: Writing

Student Instructions

*"Show, Not Tell" in Writing* "Show, Not Tell" is an important writing technique. It means using details and descriptions to help readers understand emotions and situations, rather than just stating them directly. Example: Instead of writing "He was excited," you might describe it by saying, "His eyes sparkled, and he couldn't sit still." *Activity Instructions:* Identify the Sentences: You'll read some sentences. Some of these sentences will have details that show emotions or situations (showing), while others will directly state them (telling). Your job is to figure out which ones are which. Change the Sentences: You'll be given sentences that tell something directly. Try to change them by adding details to show what's happening or how someone feels. Your First Day at School: Write a short paragraph about a character experiencing their first day at a new school. Remember to use details to show their feelings, what's around them, and how they interact with others, without directly saying how they feel. Describe the Picture: Look at the pictures provided. Based on what you see, write a description of the scene, using details to describe what's happening. The goal is to make your writing come alive with details, so readers can picture everything in their minds!

Loading