Donald Murray, author of the seminal text A Writer Teaches Writing (Houghton Mifflin, 1985), teaches us that one of the most important things to a writer is time, time to write. But with the many time constraints faced by teachers, how can we be thinking about time in ways that make a difference for our students?
Sometimes in a busy and chaotic schedule, we inadvertently miss attending to some of our students who like to “fly under the radar.” Being systematic and intentionally positive can make a big difference for some of our writers.
Like any other skill, children need long stretches of time to practice writing if they’re going to develop strong writing muscles. Seeing as muscles need to be used often to get bigger, it’s important teachers are providing kids with (four or) five times a week to engage in a writing workshop where they have at least 30 minutes of independent writing time.
The one question that comes up again and again, no matter what part of the country I happen to visiting, is TIME.
It’s been several months since I’ve written for Two Writing Teachers. In December my son was born, and I was on maternity leave until a few weeks ago. Then, in March I pushed aside all excuses… Continue reading
Lucy Calkins, author of many books on teaching writing, often says that conferring is the heart of writing workshop. I once heard her say to a group of graduate students that she wished… Continue reading
Teachers tend to take care of everyone else before they take care of themselves! It’s time to start carving out a little ME time for yourself at least one afternoon a week.
Seven tips to help you get and stay more productive during the holiday season and all year long.
I just finished reading the July 2008 Issue of Real Simple, which I’ve been subscribing to for years. Since I didn’t start it until AUGUST, I realized that the cover story “More free… Continue reading
