Note: This probably doesn't cover any of the TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills); however, it does teach the students how to give back to the community and appreciate the sacrifices of our veterans.

Materials:

• markers
• colored pencils
• scissors
• construction paper
• tissue paper
• tagboard
• glue

Procedure:

1. Using materials above and your imagination, create valentines. The only criteria I set forth is G-rated texts and pictures; no copying copy-righted characters; do a good job--something you'd be proud to give your grandma, mother, aunt, etc.

2. Call the hospital where you plan to send your valentines. They may have special requirements to be followed for acceptable items.

It's great fun and the students do a great job knowing their work will be greatly appreciated.

I have a hard time creating a rubric for this, but I do give a class participation grade.

For a listing of Veterens Hospitals, contact http://www.va.gov/