back to school · community · picture book · Read Aloud

Community-Building Books for the New School Year

During the first six weeks of school, the foundation you lay for your writers can transform their entire journey. When every writer feels seen and valued, they gain confidence and joy. Explore three new picture books that inspire connection and collaboration. Comment for a chance to win them all!

back to school

Beginning the Year With a Few Questions

Especially on the first day, but throughout the first weeks of school, I try hard to imagine who knows and loves the child that sits at a desk-- here are a few questions I'll carry with me as I connect and reconnect with children.

back to school · community · mentor texts · picture book

Five Books to Help Build a Writing Community

Discover how building a writing community in your classroom can transform your students' writing experiences and foster a sense of belonging. Learn about five picture books that will inspire meaningful conversations and support the development of a collaborative, inclusive writing community. Leave a comment on the blog post for a chance to win all five books, perfect for building a supportive writing environment!

back to school · Reflective Practice · routines

Is It Time to Teach Yet?

How do teachers know when it’s the right time to transition from routines to content? The answer lies in the readiness of both the students and the teacher.

back to school · independent writing · parent involvement

Fall Flashback

It's finally fall- my favorite season! Today I am flashing back to some of my fall posts that I've shared before on TWT.

back to school · plan · preparation

The Magic of Anticipation

When you think about the writing joy that lies ahead this year, are you spending your time planning, preparing, or anticipating?

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New Year’s Resolutions For Writing Workshop

January isn't the only time to make some New Year's Resolutions! With a new school year starting, here are some of my resolutions to teach writing more effectively!

agency · back to school

Engage Writers at the Beginning of the Year with Base Training

At the beginning of the school year, take time before launching your first unit to allow students to settle in to writing workshop. This time helps you learn about students, build their confidence, and teach workshop routines.

back to school · games · writer's notebook

Word Games in the Workshop

Creative play with words can spur ideas writers didn't know they had tucked away!

back to school · bilingual · conventions · craft · ELL · multilingual · routines

Chants for Writing: Support Routines, Conventions, and Craft

Chants are a highly engaging teaching strategy that support multilingual and monolingual learners alike. Try them out for teaching routines, conventions, and craft in writing workshop.

back to school

Dear Third Grade Writers

Join me as I share a letter to my new third grade writers! What do you want your students to know about writing workshop at the start of the year?

back to school · challenges · creativity · LIWP · NWP · poetry

Nourishing Your Teacher Soul

When your "to-do" list is super long at back-to-school time, should you take time for poetry, writing and friends? A resounding yes! How are you making time to nourish your teacher soul during these challenging times?