I’ve found a hybrid mentor text that will inspire young writers and budding activists. Leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a copy of Scot Ritchie’s new book, Join the No-Plastic Challenge.
Author: Stacey Shubitz
Stacey Shubitz is a K-6 literacy consultant and former elementary teacher. She is the author of CRAFT MOVES and other professional books on writing workshop. Her forthcoming book, MAKE THE SCHOOL SYSTEM WORK FOR YOUR CHILD WITH DISABILITIES (Guilford Press, 2026), empowers parents to navigate the special education system.
The Good-Enough Writing Workshop
When we're new at doing something, we try to achieve perfection too soon. Greatness isn't something that can be achieved when we begin teaching writing using a workshop approach. It helps to extend ourselves some grace and accept being "good enough" when we start.
Share this:
Share this:
Food Writing, Community Building, and a Book Giveaway
Writing workshop thrives when a community of children come together as writers who know each other. The first six weeks of school is when we build community. Here's one way to build relationships and encourage kids to write about one of their favorite things simultaneously. Leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a copy of Eric Carle and Friends' newest book, What's Your Favorite Food?
Share this:
Share this:
How to Deal with “Too Much” Energy in the Classroom + a Book Giveaway
Every writing workshop I've ever taught or consulted in has had at least one child who is in perpetual motion. Many times, that child is the kid who talks their classmates during independent writing time, interrupts their teacher during a writing conference, or cannot respect their peers' space in the meeting area. The first few weeks of school are the perfect time to begin conversations about living in a classroom community where all learners have different needs. Susan Verde, author of Unstoppable Me, chats with Stacey about the ways we can build classroom writing communities that welcome kids with who are often seen as having "too much" energy.
Share this:
Share this:
The Importance of Establishing Routines: Nurturing Independence from the Start
There are some routines that are more important to teach than others during the first six weeks of school. In the midst of building classroom community and starting to teach curriculum, there are a dozen routines one can model with students so writing workshop runs efficiently.
Share this:
Share this:
June/July Vacation
Summer is almost here, which means our team is taking a break from now through August 1st. (Well, except on Tuesdays. We always SLICE on Tuesdays.)
Six New Narrative Picture Books for Your Mentor Text Basket
Just as we reflect our teaching practices in the summertime, we can rethink some of the mentor texts we use and find new ones to share with students in minilessons, writing conferences, and strategy lessons.
Share this:
Share this:
Introducing a New Co-Author and Two Contributing Writers
It's my pleasure to introduce three new members to the #TWTBlog Team. I am confident our readers will benefit from their expertise in the years to come. Please join me in welcoming them by leaving a comment after you read more about them.
Share this:
Share this:
Supporting EAL Students in Writing Workshop
Eight educators share their expertise to help us understand the way to meet the needs of students who are learning English within the context of writing workshop.
Share this:
Share this:
Differentiating and Inspiring Students with Learning Differences in Writing Workshop
Have you ever wondered how other teachers were meeting the needs of students with learning differences? Five educators share their expertise with us today.
Share this:
Share this:
Tips for Getting the Most out of a Literacy Conference: Strengthening Professional Learning
Professional conferences are an excellent way to increase your knowledge and can fuel your enthusiasm for teaching. If you're new to attending conferences -- or just want some tips to help you maximize your enjoyment as a conference-goer -- then this post is for you!
Share this:
Share this:
Curating an Array of Mentor Texts
If we’re committed to differentiating instruction, then it’s important to use a variety of mentor texts to meet students’ needs.
