greenbelt writing · informal writing · ralph fletcher

A Writing Greenbelt + a Giveaway

I've known Joy Write, Ralph Fletcher's latest book that debuts today, was coming for awhile since he interviewed me about the Classroom Slice of Life Story Challenge, which he writes about in one of the book's chapters. But when I had the opportunity to read his new book in its entirety, I was amazed by the possibilities I saw Ralph present to transform young writers' attitudes towards writing through low-stakes writing.

academic choice · classroom environment · motivation · writing workshop

A Learner-Driven Classroom & Writing Workshop

Moving to a learner-driven classroom has changed my role in the classroom and writing workshop. As a teacher in a learner-driven classroom, I have stepped back to observe the learner.

Slice of Life Story Challenge

SOL Tuesday

It's Slice of Life Tuesday! Those of you feeling withdrawals from the March Slice of Life Story Challenge, breathe a sigh of relief. Come one, come all, come slice...

argument writing · classroom environment · conferences · conferring · differentiation · elaboration · environment · growth mindset · management · mentor texts · middle school · nonfiction writing · opinion writing · preparation · strategic conferring

Changing Tack: Learning from a Writing Conference

It's great to be prepared when we are conferring with our writers. However, being 'prepared' and being 'present' are not the same thing...

giveaway · SOLSC

SOLSC Participant Pledge

Congratulations!  You have completed the 10th Annual Slice of Life Story Challenge.  You have already reaped the benefits of this challenge: you have developed a daily writing habit, you have become a valued member of a writing community, you have shared stories from your life, and you have honed your writing craft. That being said,… Continue reading SOLSC Participant Pledge

Slice of Life Story Challenge

DAY 31 OF THE MARCH SOLSC! #SOL17

I'm humbled and amazed by the enthusiasm of the writers who take on this challenge each year. Please watch the video, which includes words of thanks for everyone who makes the Slice of Life Story Challenge a community of connected writers.

SOLSC Classroom Challenge

CLASSROOM SOLSC FOR STUDENTS- DAY 31 OF 31

Congratulations! You've made it to the end of the Classroom SOLSC for Students! Time to celebrate!

demonstration · katie wood ray · lesson plans · middle school · minilesson · modeling · Slice of Life Story Challenge · strategies · teacher writing · Teachers who write

Showing Not Telling: Demonstrations Matter

We've all likely taught 'show, don't tell' lessons in our narrative units. But showing not telling can have instructional meaning, as well...

Slice of Life Story Challenge

Day 30 of the SOLSC #sol17

It's Day 30, and it's been an incredible month of presence, intention, and inspiration. A few weeks ago, we all set a goal, and we made a commitment to be a part of a writing community. Some of you set this intention for the first time, and some of you for your tenth time. Be proud. We… Continue reading Day 30 of the SOLSC #sol17

SOLSC Classroom Challenge

CLASSROOM SOLSC FOR STUDENTS- DAY 30 OF 31

Welcome to Day 30 of the Classroom SOLSC for Students! As you reflect on the challenge this year, what would you do differently next year?

writing workshop

Day 29 of the March SOLSC #sol17

Day 29. Almost to the end. The finish line is right there. Writing every day for 31 days is a big deal, and so is being a part of this community. Special Announcement and a Prize At 7:52 pm last night, Betsy Hubbard became the 100,000th commenter in the 10th Annual Slice of Life Story… Continue reading Day 29 of the March SOLSC #sol17

SOLSC Classroom Challenge

CLASSROOM SOLSC FOR STUDENTS- DAY 29 OF 31

It's Day 29 for the Classroom SOLSC for Students!