Objective

By the end of this lesson, River will be able to write a compelling non-fiction diary entry that captures the essence of spending 24 hours aboard the Sea Shepherd ship Allankay as a volunteer. This entry will reflect personal experiences, observations, and feelings, showcasing River's ability to convey real-life events in an engaging narrative format.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook or journal for writing
• Pens or pencils
• Access to a timer or clock
• Optional: A quiet space for reflection and writing

Before the lesson, River should familiarize themselves with the mission of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and the types of activities volunteers typically engage in while aboard their ships. This background knowledge will help enrich the diary entry.

Activities

• Research and Reflection:

  Spend some time researching the Sea Shepherd and the Allankay ship. Take notes on key facts, past missions, and what it means to be a volunteer. Reflect on why this experience is important to you and what you hope to learn.

• Imaginary Experience:

  Close your eyes and imagine spending 24 hours on the Allankay. Picture the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Write down your thoughts and feelings as if you were there, focusing on the little details that make the experience unique.

• Diary Entry Draft:

  Using the notes and reflections from the previous activities, begin drafting your diary entry. Aim for a narrative style that includes personal anecdotes, descriptions of the ship, and interactions with the crew and the environment.

• Peer Review:

  If possible, share your diary entry with a family member or friend and ask for feedback. Discuss what they enjoyed and if there were any parts that could be improved. Use their insights to revise your entry.

Talking Points

• "Why do you think diary entries are important for capturing personal experiences?"
• "What emotions do you think volunteers on the Allankay might feel during their journey?"
• "How can descriptive language enhance your writing?"
• "What are some key observations you might make while on a ship?"
• "How does writing about real experiences differ from writing fiction?"
• "What are some challenges you might face while volunteering at sea?"
• "Why is it important to reflect on your experiences?"
• "How can you convey a sense of place in your writing?"
• "What role does storytelling play in conservation efforts?"
• "How can you make your writing more engaging for readers?"
• "What are some effective ways to organize your thoughts before writing?"
• "How can you incorporate dialogue into your diary entry?"
• "What are some sensory details you want to include in your writing?"
• "How can your unique perspective as a volunteer enhance the story?"
• "What do you hope readers take away from your diary entry?"
• "How can you use your diary entry to inspire others to get involved in conservation?"