A Day in the Life Journal

Writing from another perspective develops empathy and narrative skills.

Framework: EYFS
Unit: EYFS Community Helpers
Learning area: Communication and Language
Level: EYFS Reception

Objectives

Write a journal entry from a community helper's perspective

Materials

Journal notebooks
Pencils
Helper picture prompts

Instructions

1. Discuss what a helper's day might include.

2. Model writing: 'Today I put out a fire. I felt brave.'

3. Children write their own entry (3-5 sentences).

4. Include a drawing of the helper at work.

5. Share entries in author's chair.

Educator tip

Accept invented spelling but model correct spelling in responses.

Assessment

Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Assess perspective-taking, sentence structure, and descriptive language use.