Yes &… with Digital Tools We Can
As we set off to create writers who write in tandem with the printed world and the digital world there are a few we need to consider.
Tips for Analyzing and Scoring a Ton of Writing
Time is precious, and your mental energy even more so. Why waste either when others before you have learned through trial and error? Avoid common missteps by reading these simple tips.
The Joys, Wonders, and Challenges of On-Demand Writing: Assessment Strengthens Writers Blog Series
I’ll be honest. I actually love on-demand writing assessments.
Go-To Digital Tools for Writing Workshop
Digital tools can transform your teaching by allowing students to have a writing community beyond the classroom walls, be innovative, make meaningful connections to other writers and students, have more resources readily available, and have true, authentic reasons for writing.
Instant Minilesson Follow-Up
A strong active engagement, and a routine for informally assessing student work during the minilesson can give you the tools you need to be sure that no student leaves the meeting area completely confused.
Drilling Down into the Writing
Of the many ways I gain an understanding of my writers, my favorite and most valuable is gathering up all the writing and diving into reading ALL the students’ work.
Using Assessment Tools to Teach Transference
Valuable lessons can be learned when an assessment tool designed for one genre is used to assess another.
Just what are the kids writing in those notebooks?
Mrs. V. left the following comment yesterday: “Thanks for your details. Could you tell me more about their idea notebook nightly assignment? What are the requirements and how do you … Continue Reading Just what are the kids writing in those notebooks?
A New Writer’s Notebook Rubric
Sometimes you have to let go of the reigns and allow your students to lead you, right. Well, I’m preparing to do just that tomorrow when I work with my … Continue Reading A New Writer’s Notebook Rubric
Students and Standardized Tests
MOteacher’s comment on Ruth’s post last night reminded me of those demoralized kids and the children I used to spend countless hours preparing for City and State Tests. MOteacher wrote: … Continue Reading Students and Standardized Tests
Mid-Year Self-Evaluation: Want a Copy?
It’s that time again… This-coming week is Mid-Year Self-Evaluation Time in my class’s Writing Workshop. I’ve revamped the Mid-Year Self-Evaluation to reflect the questions from not only Buckner’s Book (as … Continue Reading Mid-Year Self-Evaluation: Want a Copy?
My Life as a Reader.
The first unit of study is coming to a close. The summative assessment is two part. First, students are to create a multimedia presentation (text + image + audio) of … Continue Reading My Life as a Reader.
NCTE: Reading Assessment.
While at NCTE, I listened to Patrick Allen, Franki Sibberson, and colleagues discuss reading assessment. Here are some highlights: One assessment isn’t better than another and none can stand alone. … Continue Reading NCTE: Reading Assessment.
Preview: Reluctant Writers’ Self-Reflections
I’ve been going through some of my former students’ end-of-year self-assessments in writing (adapted from Buckner’s Book Notebook Know-How) that were completed in June 2007. I’m doing this to find … Continue Reading Preview: Reluctant Writers’ Self-Reflections
photos + words.
In response to Ali’s challenge this week, I’ve been thinking of stories which represent finding balance in life. This has stretched me as a writer. I find myself renewed by having … Continue Reading photos + words.
prompt scoring.
First day back . . . and I had the pleasure of working with all of the 4th & 5th grade teachers in our corporation to SCORE WRITING PROMPTS! (Does … Continue Reading prompt scoring.
