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.
Teaching Digital Tools in Writing Workshop: Plan, Purpose, EXPLORE
Digital tools add opportunities to our writing, opportunities that can motivate and inspire writers. The reach of digital tools allows writers to receive and give feedback, share beyond their classroom, publish to an authentic audience, and build a writing community. So how do we make sure our writers are ready?
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SOL Tuesday
Write. Share. Give. Welcome to the weekly Slice of LIfe.
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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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Parental Intentions: Solving Predictable Problems
Children deserve a caring adult in their corner. Sometimes good intentions can backfire. As we continue the series on Predictable Problems, today we tackle parental figures and misunderstandings related to the writing workshop.
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Fitting It All In: Solving Predictable Problems
For many of us, especially in middle school, trying to fit all the pieces of writing workshop into, say, a 41-minute schedule, can feel daunting. How can we teach a minilesson, get our kids working, confer with individuals and small groups, provide a mid-workshop interruption, and facilitate a teaching share…all in that tight time frame?
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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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IT’S TUESDAY! PLEASE JOIN US WITH A SLICE OF LIFE!
WRITE. SHARE. GIVE WRITE a slice of life story on your blog. SHARE a link to your post in the comments section. GIVE comments to at least three other SOL bloggers. HaPpY HallOwEEn!
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Conventions & Presentation: Solving Predictable Problems
Proper use of conventions and the aesthetics of writing pose unique challenges in an elementary writing workshop. Here are solutions to eight predictable problems you may be facing with your students.
TWO WRITING TEACHERS 