I don't remember sharing writing experiences at home when my daughters were in elementary school. I wish we had.
Category: writing workshop
Nightly Writing: Homework and the Writing Workshop
Four ways to encourage students to write after the school day is finished WITHOUT assigning writing as homework.
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Reimagining Homework: Homework and the Writing Workshop
This past summer, I found myself questioning homework- why I give it, what it accomplishes and if there might be an alternative.
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Misunderstandings Within The Writing Process
The writing process is not always linear, it is not a circle of steps, it is not something that needs to be done the same way twice. The writing process might be different everytime a writer sits down to start. It might be different for someone writing a poem one day and an essay a week later. The writing process is as unique as the writer. Embrace the process and its endless possibilities as students move forward.
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What I’ve Learned about Word Study
I recently had the good fortune of watching the wonderful Natalie Louis deliver a word study lesson at a school in Harlem. It was so cool. For a mostly upper grade person like me, word study has always been a bit shrouded in mystery. What exactly is the difference between phonemic and phonological awareness? What… Continue reading What I’ve Learned about Word Study
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Let’s Talk About Methods for Conferring
When I was a new teacher, I learned from Lucy Calkins that there are basically four overall methods to choose from when planning instruction: 1) demonstration, 2) coaching, 3) inquiry, and 4) telling/explaining. This four-method framework is useful for thinking about conferring.
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ICYMI: Solving Predictable Problems
In case you missed any pieces from our series about predictable problems, here's a quick review of the week of posts with the links, as well.
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Units of Study That Go On Forever: Solving Predictable Problems
It's happened to ever teacher. We start out strong, with enthusiasm. We think: This unit is going to be GREAT! This is is exactly what my kids need! This unit is our favorite! But then, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks (!!) later you and the kids are completely sick of the writing you've been doing--just like a favorite recipe that you've become burnt out on.
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STUDENT AGENCY: SOLVING PREDICTABLE PROBLEMS BLOG SERIES
I stepped back and put my kids in front of their learning about six years ago. It has changed how I teach and deepened my respect for students and who they are as individuals.
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Engaging Writers: Solving Predictable Problems
If we want engaged writers, and not simply compliant students going through the motions and counting the minutes until writing time is over, we need to find ways to capture their attention and their hearts.
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Transferring skills from unit to unit: Solving Predictable Problems Blog Series
When one of my daughters was switching from playing soccer to playing field hockey, we had several conversations about the similar skills each sport required. It didn't take us long to figure out that her understanding of passing, moving to space, and cutting off pathways would be helpful as she transitioned, not to mention her physical… Continue reading Transferring skills from unit to unit: Solving Predictable Problems Blog Series
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Overview: Solving Predictable Problems Blog Series
Once fall arrives, most writing workshops are well underway. Depending on when your school year started, you're likely teaching your second or third unit of study. Most of you are probably prepping for parent-teacher conferences, which will take place in the next couple of weeks. This is a predictable time of year. As a result,… Continue reading Overview: Solving Predictable Problems Blog Series
