‘Tis the season for motivating students with lessons that embrace the festivities of December because, let’s face it, we’re tired and they’re tired, and we are all in need of something fun to do in class. One option is to bring seasonal works of art to your lessons, and who better than Norman Rockwell to springboard discussion, creative writing, scene building, poetry, descriptive writing, and so much more. The Jolly Postman is one Rockwell painting that can be used for all of the above. Students can write a script of the scene, or write a modern version – the Jolly Amazon Driver – and draw a picture to go with their poems or stories. Rockwell captures children so well – their excitement is evident in their eyes and in their smiles. Even the dog is excited for the packages to be delivered. Enjoy the countdown to the holidays!
