Ba Da Bing In Action

While modeling "Ba Da Bing" in many classrooms throughout the district, I am always amazed at the creative writing that comes from this simple lesson.

For those of you who have never heard of "Ba Da Bing," it is simply a formula for creating an engaging opening to a story, while focusing on ONlY ONE MOMENT IN TIME. "Ba" refers to: Where were your feet planted? (Where were you?). "Da" refers to: What did you see? Lastly, "Bing" focuses on: What were you thinking?  - this part truly adds more voice to the writing.

Kelly Cerbo's 5th graders were introduced to Ba Da Bing a few weeks ago as I modeled a lesson in her room. Students then decided to take it a step further and add more details.

The task was to PRETEND THAT YOU JUST LANDED ON MARS, ALONE. Students were asked to focus on only one moment in time. I have included 3 samples below. Check them out! 

Notice the word choice in this piece of writing!

Love the voice in this student's writing!




This writer definitely has an imagination!!

Hats off to Kelly Cerbo and her 5th graders!!