Grammar, conventions, and sentence structures have the power to detract meaning and perceived value of writing content. These skills are important to teach students on a daily basis, although it's tricky to balance the focus on conventions with the celebration of content.
Category: grammar
Word-Sentence-Paragraph: Ready-to-Go-Tip
These ready-to-print resources can be adapted for any K-8 classroom using essential skills for any writer.
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Shared reading as a writing tool? Go for it!
Teachers always seem to be searching for extra minutes. Cycles of shared reading represent one way to thoughtfully reimagine how to make the most of each minute. When we thoughtfully (and playfully) integrate literacy, everyone wins!
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Grammar Notebooks
Grammar notebooks are not the cure-all for the persistent refrains about retention and transfer. However, they do support agency and accountability as students build their understanding and appreciation of words and language.
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Sentence Patterning Charts
How do you teach students what a sentence is? The Sentence Patterning Chart, a strategy from Project GLAD, makes teaching sentences concrete and fun. Try singing sentences with your students and see for yourself!
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Quick & Fun Lesson Closures? Yes, Please!
Embrace the thrill of trying something new. Know that doing so doesn't require abundant time, energy, or preparation. Small shifts have a real impact on classroom energy, enthusiasm, and engagement. How do you add variety, joy, and/or playfulness to lesson closings?
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Editing Along the Way…Often in 5 Minutes or Less
The other day, I did it again. I drafted an email to my bosses. Read it. Reread it. Hit send. Got distracted. Then… saw it. The error. These moments of regret keep me humble! And so, when I notice students not applying taught spelling and grammar concepts, I remind myself that they are not defiantly… Continue reading Editing Along the Way…Often in 5 Minutes or Less
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Bring on the Fun with Sentence Construction
Who says grammar can't be fun in a third-grade classroom? And who says young writers can't understand complex concepts like dependent and independent clauses? And who knew I'd be using poop, sentence structures, and a variety of clauses in the same sentence in front of a room of third-graders?
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Minilesson Alternatives: Considering OTHER Ways to Kick Off Workshop
If you have ever felt that you were going through the motions of a minilesson, know that there are plenty of other ways you can choose to gather as a community and launch writing time. Here are ten alternatives for beginning a writing workshop session - - with joy, intention, and inspiration.
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Step Up Interactive Writing (…And Sneak In More Spelling, Vocabulary, and Grammar)
As teachers, we know that when writers encode with ease, they are better able to focus on their ideas. Interactive writing is the perfect setting to build this competency.
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The Power of Small Words and Combinations
Why are some sentences stronger than others? What makes a sentence powerful? What are the subtle but important differences that a single word can make? Maybe you'll inspire some word-based debates as you nudge along fluency and language skills.
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Many Reasons to Love the Oxford Comma
I love the Oxford comma. But not for the reasons you might think.
TWO WRITING TEACHERS 