Draw and dictate: a 20-minute pre-K writing activity
What it is: a pre-K writing routine where each student draws a picture about one topic, tells you a sentence about it, and watches you write their exact words under the drawing. Students see that what they say can be written and read back.
Time: about 20 minutes. Grade: Pre-K (ages 4 to 5).
Materials: drawing paper, crayons, and a marker for you. Pick one simple topic, such as "something I like to do outside."
- Model first. Draw a quick picture and say your sentence: "I like to swing high." Write it while saying each word.
- Students draw their own picture about the topic. Ask open questions as they draw: "Tell me about this part."
- Sit with each student. Ask: "What do you want your words to say?"
- Write the sentence exactly as the student says it, saying each word as you write.
- Read it back, pointing to each word. The student reads it with you.
- Students who want to can trace one word or write the first letter of their name.
Differentiation: students who need support can tell one word instead of a sentence. Students who are ready can try to write a letter or a word on their own next to yours. English learners can dictate in their home language; write it, then add the English if you can.
Quick check: ask a student to point to where their sentence starts and where it ends.
Save this activity to your library so it is ready when you need it.
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About this resource
- Shared by
- @UpOnlyLearning · Curriculum team
- Posted
- Oct 30, 2026
- Type
- Lesson plan
- Grade
- Grades K–2
- Subject
- Writing
- Language
- English
- License
- Free for classroom, co-op and tutoring use. Please don't resell.