apps · collaboration · independent writing · outdoors · summer vacation · writing workshop

Four Writing Workshop Ideas for the Final Stretch

If you're in the final stretch--the last few days or weeks of school-- here are a few ideas to keep kids writing right to the very end.

collaboration · community · reflections · Reflective Practice · writing workshop

How Do We Help Students Find Their Why?

At first, pride filled my heart, but as I continued to watch, I realized the work ethics I was watching at that moment hadn't been as clear nor intentional throughout the year. The day's show of teamwork could have been the culmination of a year's work, but I knew it was something more.

charts · collaboration · collaborative planning · DIY Literacy · writing workshop

A Writing Workshop Learning Walk

As much as I try to flatten the walls of my classroom using technology, the truth is there are still walls. It is me and 25 third graders, and most recently, a fabulous student teacher. Still, the walls are there and often I don't get to see other teachers in action. Last month, I had the opportunity to remedy that problem for a day.

Assessment Strengthens Writers Blog Series · collaboration · communication · writing workshop

Collaborating with Colleagues: Assessment Strengthens Writers

Assessment has played a big role in my shifts as a writing teacher. Colleagues have helped me get there. Come see my journey of the people in my life who have not only impacted the writers in my classroom but have impacted me as a teacher. Assessment strengthens all of us when done right!

assessment · Assessment Strengthens Writers Blog Series · classroom environment · collaboration · responsive classroom · writing workshop

Helping Parents See Progress Through the Process

As learners ourselves, we know students need a supportive culture where taking risks, asking questions, and understanding the value of the process is omnipresent.

celebration · challenges · collaboration · mentoring · writing workshop

Growing Writers, One Challenge at a Time

This year, our class motto has been "Push through the struggle." Originally a mantra of one student, but quickly became the motto of the community. These are the words used to encourage each other to persevere in all learning tasks. The Slice Of Life Story Challenge was no exception!

classroom environment · collaboration · collaborative planning · communication · PD Possibilities Series

Using Colleagues to Create Your Own Professional Development: PD Possibilities Series

My husband is an eighth grade ELA teacher. We often find ourselves having conversations about our day. One night he was mentioning he had to step into a colleagues room for a few minutes and he noticed some really innovative engagement techniques. He was immediately thinking about how he might try this with his students.… Continue reading Using Colleagues to Create Your Own Professional Development: PD Possibilities Series

collaboration · community · LIWP · NWP · opinion writing · reading · writing workshop

A Tale of Teachers: Collaboration, Community, Connection

Once upon a time, there was a teacher who became a better teacher by connecting with other passionate educators...

collaboration · conferences · conferring · writing workshop

From Telling Stories to Writing Stories- It’s all in respecting the process

I pause to listen to these stories (as best as I can in classroom of 27 six-year-olds, each with a story to share). After they’ve shared their story I comment, “I can’t wait to read that story!” or “Wow, you already have an idea for writing workshop!” Some walk away shaking their heads, eager to write their story, others look at me puzzled as if they aren’t sure why I would say this when they just told me the story. (I often wonder if they’re thinking, “Weren’t you listening?”).

collaboration · creativity · critical literacy · Q & A · questions · technology

Solve It Your Way

I'm excited to share Franki Sibberson's latest project with you. SOLVE IT YOUR WAY! is an innovative project to encourage creative problem solving and collaborate with others around the globe. I shared this month's question with them while we waited in the car for Andy to run into the store. When we got home, my… Continue reading Solve It Your Way