modeling · think aloud

Modeling as Eavesdropping on a Writer’s Inner Monologue

The power of modeling—modeling the verb—is the opportunity to make not just the product visible—model, the noun—but the thinking of the writer visible as well. Without modeling the thinking, it is still a bit of a mystery how a writer gets from point A to point B—no matter how clear that point B might be. 

administrators · literacy coaches · Voices from the Community

Principals can be literacy coaches too!

Building administrators are and should be lead teachers! Although we often get bogged down in the mechanics of running a school, finding moments to reconnect with our own teaching passions is a key part in staying grounded, being a model for the staff, and building relationships with students. For me, writing has always been my passion and therefore I make it a priority to find time to teach, confer, and connect with my community to both share my passion about writing and fuel theirs!

artifact · assessment · student work

Student Writing As Data for Love and Instruction

I believe we might understand student experience is by looking at student composition with asset-based eyes, first to recognize students as whole children and secondly to determine flexible writing goals. 

slice of life

Tuesday Slice of Life

October is here and the autumn air is on its way. Join us today for a Tuesday slice!

editing · proofreading · revision · word choice

Be the first reader of your writing!

It's important to take a beat before sharing one's writing. With practice and reminders, children can learn how to become the first readers of their work.

storytelling

Storytelling Starter Pack: Making the Leap

If you’re trying to reach reluctant writers with “nothing to write,” pushing students to use craft and voice in writing, or just hoping to make the writing process creative and fun, storytelling may be your answer. Taking the leap is easier than you think!

slice of life

It’s Tuesday! Welcome to Slice of Life!

Every Tuesday, we invite you to join the slicing community. All are welcome.

interactive writing · tcrwp · writing about reading

Writing About Reading

Writing about Reading When I am learning anything new, I take more than the average time to understand the new concept to its fidelity. Recently, a student’s mom gave me a cutting of a plumeria plant. She explained that I would need to place it in a pot with cactus soil and water it vigorously… Continue reading Writing About Reading

back to school · challenges · creativity · LIWP · NWP · poetry

Nourishing Your Teacher Soul

When your "to-do" list is super long at back-to-school time, should you take time for poetry, writing and friends? A resounding yes! How are you making time to nourish your teacher soul during these challenging times?

slice of life

It’s Tuesday! Welcome to Slice of Life Story Challenge

Every Tuesday, we invite you to join the slicing community. All are welcome.

process · publishing · writing workshop

Starting with Publishing in Mind: About the Author

When we start the year off with publishing in mind, we think about the authors.

conventions · editing · grammar · language · precise language · punctuation

Many Reasons to Love the Oxford Comma

I love the Oxford comma. But not for the reasons you might think.