Imagination Meets Strategy.

Chippewa Jr./Sr. High School students in Mrs. Kagers English class collaborated on a survival-themed pre-writing activity, using creativity and problem-solving to prepare for their rough draft essays.

Last week, Chippewa students were challenged to think fast and work as a team during a unique classroom pre-write activity. Their scenario? A sinking cruise ship, only 30 minutes to act, and the need to survive both at sea and on a deserted island.

Working in groups of 2–3 lifeboat members, students carefully debated which supplies were most important, who would gather them, and how they would be stored. This collaborative exercise encouraged communication, planning, and problem-solving while sparking plenty of creativity.

The following day, students transformed their ideas into essays that answered the question: “What would you bring, and why?” Through this process, they practiced structuring arguments, supporting their choices with reasoning, and applying their imaginations to real-world survival skills.

Activities like this highlight how Chippewa’s students are building both writing skills and life skills—learning to think critically, work as a team, and communicate effectively.