One of the things I think most about this time of year is how can I empower students to be (more) independent in writing workshop. What do I mean be independent? This is a crucial vision for us to develop as we head into a new school year. For a moment let's suspend reality. Let's… Continue reading Empowering Independence
Category: community
Building Community Through the Slice of Life Story Challenge
It's always a pleasure to meet other Slicers in person. On July 1st, I had coffee with two other slicers, one of whom (Kelly) I met last year at the Writing Institute and one of whom I had the pleasure of meeting (Tisha) this year. (Do check out her new blog, Middle Minds.) When I… Continue reading Building Community Through the Slice of Life Story Challenge
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Literacy Drive
The official start of summer is just a few days away. This summer, LitWorld, a non-profit organization led by Pam Allyn, supports the development of literacy worldwide. LitWorld is putting together a summer book and school supplies drive to benefit children in Harlem and in Kenya. Please take a look at the items on the… Continue reading Literacy Drive
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“A” Collection (Ruth’s SOLS)
I collect the letter A. I think it's fun to hide them throughout the house and in my office at school. I like to tuck them into unexpected places. On top of a picture frame, above a door, beside a table lamp. Recently I gathered several of them and placed them on our mantel. I… Continue reading “A” Collection (Ruth’s SOLS)
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Polacco’s Newest Book
Patricia Polacco's newest book, The Junkyard Wonders, can be used during the first month of the school year when you're teaching students about the climate of respect (for differences) you expect*. This exquisite picture book, based on a real-life event from Polacco's life, is an excellent companion to Thank You Mr. Falker, a book I… Continue reading Polacco’s Newest Book
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Getting Ready to Go “Back to School”
Some teachers are enjoying August without a care in the world, while others are at the bitter end of their summer vacation. Therefore, I thought I'd take a few minutes to point you to some "back to school" posts we've written through the years in order to help you get ready for the school year.… Continue reading Getting Ready to Go “Back to School”
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SOLSC & Community
It's funny how the Slice of Life Story Challenge has created a virtual community of writers. In November, Ruth and I met up with Bonnie Kaplan and Kevin Hodgson when we attended the NCTE Annual Convention in Philadelphia. Two weeks ago, I found myself in a session with Kelly Sandborn, who was one of our… Continue reading SOLSC & Community
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Letters of Gratitude
I am consistently moved by meaningful letters. When I write thank you notes, I am sure to take time with them so the recipient can feel my genuine gratitude. However, when I write other notes, specifically condolence notes, I find it more challenging. (Let me be honest, I've even looked for mentor letters to help… Continue reading Letters of Gratitude
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I {Heart} Comments
From time to time, I use this blog to sort out ideas I'm wrestling with. I must admit this puts me in a vulnerable place. Such was the case with Monday's posts. Audience -- authentic audience -- has been on my mind a lot lately. Sometimes I think we make things more complicated than they need… Continue reading I {Heart} Comments
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It’s Saturday.
I think Saturday is reason enough to celebrate here at Two Writing Teachers. On Wednesday, Ashley left this comment: I have had a lot of false starts getting the writing workshop started. My students have never been in a workshop format so we are not doing well with independence. Now Ashley's frustrations are not the reason… Continue reading It’s Saturday.
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The Truth Matters!
My students published their research-based essays on the Holocaust this morning, which was not a small feat! I was so incredibly proud of their diligence and desire to produce a quality piece of writing during the final month of the school year. After their celebration, they went to recess and lunch. When they returned, I… Continue reading The Truth Matters!
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The Big Picture: The Next-to-the-Last Post
Ruth's going to close-up TBPS tomorrow. In the meantime, if you've read one or all of our posts, but haven't commented, we hope you'll do so! We'd really like your feedback on the latest Big Picture Series. Thanks!
