Why Do We Say “Cheese”? | Printable Reading & Writing Activity (Grades 2–4)

✨ Fun Literacy & Social History Crossover Lesson ✨

Bring smiles into your classroom—literally! This engaging, kid-friendly printable explores the quirky tradition of saying “cheese” during photo-taking. Perfect for grades 2–4, this resource combines reading comprehension, cultural history, and a creative writing prompt to spark curiosity and classroom discussion.

💡 What's Included:

• A lively 1-page nonfiction reading passage
• A writing prompt: “Invent your own smile word!”
• A visual infographic (perfect for projection or display)
• A writing rubric (4-point scale) for easy grading or self-assessment

📚 Learning Objectives:

Students will:

✔ Understand the origin and purpose of the phrase “say cheese”

✔ Develop reading comprehension skills

✔ Practice explanatory and narrative writing

✔ Use creativity to connect history with personal expression

📏 Learning Standards Addressed:

Aligned with Common Core State Standards for Grades 2–4:

Reading Informational Text (RI):

• RI.2.1 / RI.3.1 / RI.4.1 – Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text
• RI.2.2 / RI.3.2 / RI.4.2 – Identify the main topic and key details
• RI.2.4 / RI.3.4 / RI.4.4 – Determine the meaning of words in context

Writing (W):

• W.2.2 / W.3.2 / W.4.2 – Write informative/explanatory texts with facts and definitions
• W.2.3 / W.3.3 / W.4.3 – Write narratives or imaginative pieces with details and structure
• W.2.5 / W.3.5 / W.4.5 – With guidance and support, strengthen writing as needed by revising and editing

❤️ Teacher Tip:

This makes a great early finisher activity, sub lesson, or photo day writing warm-up!

📎 No prep. Just print and go!

Please let me know if you'd like a version tailored to digital classrooms (e.g., for Google Slides or Seesaw)! I'd be glad to work on providing that for your classroom needs. Lastly, tell a teacher friend about my store and follow me.

Thank you - Press The Ishu!