writing

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writing
By Gail

I agree that modeling is the way to go. Have you looked at the Interactive Writing book by Irene Fountas? Every day, you can set up situations for the children to help you build a message. It can be a recipe, a thank you
note, a list of ideas, favorite animals, whatever. One child at a time can attempt to write the text but everyone is there for support. I usually have them write only one letter or punctuation if they can't make letters. The children all sound out the word, stretch it out, clap the syllables. They look, listen and feel the word. Together we figure out what sound we hear and what letter represents

that sound. The child whose turn it is to write will write that letter. If they make a mistake, the other children raise one figure and say "There is something wrong with the "T" I cover up the error and the child tries again. If they get stuck they may pick someone to help them out. I fill in tricky things like blends and silent letters. Once the children feel comfortable with this group work, we will move to individual writing. A feeling of success and accomplishment is key.