Cereal Box Activities

I developed this writing center while taking a summer workshop, Options Through Learning Centers, at Kent State University Ashtabula Campus in 1986. It was patterned after a collection of activities designed for gifted students. I liked the idea and thought it would be suitable for my students. The activities were designed with fourth- through sixth-graders in mind but could easily be adapted to meet the needs of other students. I have used it as a learning center and as a whole class activity with equal success.

Materials:

Empty box such as a cigar box, contact paper, index cards, small cereal box, markers, tape, glue

Assembly:

Cover the box with contact paper and write the name of the center on the lid. Tape the activity cards to the lid of the box in flip card style.

Contents:

1. On an index card write the following directions, then glue this card to the bottom of the box:
   • Select a card from the lid of the box.
   • You may choose any one of the five cards with which to begin.
   • Read the card and follow the directions.
   • Place your finished work in the writing assignments' basket.
2. Place a small cereal box inside the bigger box.
3. On index cards, write the following activity directions:
   • Think of all the many and unusual uses for this cereal. List as many as you can.
   • Plan a television commercial for this cereal. What materials will you need? What order will your ad follow? What problms may you encounter? Write your plan.
   • Think of all the similes that would describe this cereal and/or box.
   • List all the various reactions people might have upon learning that this is the only cereal avaiable to buy.
   • You own a grocery store. Should you stock this cereal? List all the arguments for and against this decision. What do you finally decide? Why?