Biweekly Recap #ICYMI

Did you miss a post from the Two Writing Teachers? Here’s a roundup of ideas, resources, and giveaways from the past two weeks!

Looking for an amazing new teaching resource? Melanie introduces us to How to Become a Better Writing Teacher, the latest from Carl Anderson and Matt Glover. (Bonus: There’s a giveaway!)

How to Become a Better Writing Teacher: Book Review and Giveaway

Stacey calls new and returning writers to sign up for the March Slice of Life Story Challenge (#SOL24). This post is packed with details about the challenge and the community it has built over the past 17 years.

Sign up for the 17th Annual Slice of Life Story Challenge #SOL24

Melanie’s writing toolkits are a treasure trove of resources. She opened up her toolkit for readers this week with tips and tools to create your own set of resources.

Toolkit Resources for Writing Instruction

Are you ready to look at student engagement through a more thoughtful and intentional lens? Jessica shared an example of her writing Engagement Inventory, inspired by Jennifer Serravallo, and unpacked how this tool has impacted her writing workshop.

Writing Engagement Inventory:Straight From The Classroom

Finally, make sure to check out two amazing “Tip for Tomorrow” episodes on the #TWTPod! Stacey discusses Reflection Shares and Melanie sets eductors up to navigate research about writing instruction.

Teach, Don't Just Tell: A Tip for Tomorrow from Stacey – Two Writing Teachers Podcast

Stacey spotlights a foundational principle of writing instruction: "Teach, don’t just tell." Inspired by Sarah Valter’s insights and rooted in educational research, she explores the impact of modeling: making the invisible processes of writing visible for our students. You’ll hear about the difference between simply giving directions and authentically showing your thinking and writing moves, and why this distinction matters so much for young writers. Stacey also discusses practical ways to shift from telling to teaching and offers reflective questions to help you examine your own classroom practices.GO DEEPER:Read “Teachers Model and Think Aloud: Practices of Great Writing Teachers” by Sarah ValterUse these reflective questions:1) Do you mostly give directions, or do you model your thinking and writing?2) In one-on-one conferences, do your questions and feedback help students try new strategies, or do you just tell them what to do next?3) When you use mentor texts, are they published works, curriculum samples, or your own writing?4) If you use your own writing, do you show your process? That is, do you let students see your thinking, mistakes, revisions, and decisions?5) Are you only sharing the finished product, or also the rough drafts and your thoughts about them?6) What chances do you give students to see your real process, and do you invite their questions or encourage them to notice your writing moves?Send us Fan MailPlease subscribe to our podcast and leave us ratings/reviews on your favorite listening platform.You may contact us directly if you want us to consult with your school district. Melanie Meehan: meehanmelanie@gmail.com Stacey Shubitz: stacey@staceyshubitz.comEmail us at contact@twowritingteachers.org for affiliate or sponsorship opportunities.For more about teaching writing, head to the Two Writing Teachers blog.