Chapter 8-Organize Daily Writing
As teachers begin to establish a writing workshop, there are a few things to keep in mind. These may include: establishing a purpose and audience for all writing and always model. Demonstrating is where students will begin to catch on and gradually become better writers. Finding time for daily writing is essential for any grade level. The author stated that anybody that writes everyday in a regular planned writing session produces about twice the volume and twice the number of ideas as writers who write when they feel like it. With this statistic and preparing students with lifelong skills, it is our responsibility to provide students with a daily writing time.
Most students and teachers write best in a quiet setting. After writing time each day, it is vital that the whole class does a reflection. Some of these questions could include: what went well, how could we have done better, what will we do differently tomorrow, etc. Modeling writing behavior shows children what the teacher expects and holds students accountable.
One part of this chapter that I found helpful in my first grade classroom was the short writing projects with simple criteria. This could include a book of compliments, letter or poems, small moments, book reviews, and personal keepsakes. This is all topics that children feel comfortable writing about and feel like they all have something special to say. It is important that we publish children’s writing in classrooms and hallways in an attractive way that lets visitors read it easily. If children know that they will have an audience reading their writing, they will put more effort into all aspects of their writing. Even those students that struggle with writing, they could have adaptations. This could include using parent volunteers, computers, peers, and the teachers help.
Erica,
ReplyDeleteI like the short writing projects that you would have students complete. I am going to have to incorporate some of those into my own classroom. Students love to share their opinions and thoughts, and this is such a creative way for them to do so. I love how you state that the students have something special to say. You are too right! All students do have a voice and can express it through writing.
Comments by: Jacinda
ReplyDeleteUntil I read this chapter I always thought I did a lot of writing in my classroom. Truth is I guess there is never enough writing. I use daily oral language worksheets in my classroom, but this upcoming year I plan on finding a different way to present that same concept. I like the idea you have planned for your classroom, short writing projects.
For Ashlay:
ReplyDeleteI love the mini writing projects that you work on with your students. There is nothing better than allowing our students to express and share their own thoughts and opionions with peers. I have learned so much from others teaching experiences, because others have shared their opinions with me.