Writer's Workshop (long)

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Home : 2005 : February : 21

Writer's Workshop (long)
By Mrs. L

It's my first year teaching, but I have been fortunate to have come to a school where they have just adopted a writing program. For the beginning of their writing, don't edit at all! Instead (now these are just suggestions),
be their writing coach! Walk around with a clip board everyday (writing down what you dicussed)and get to as many kids as you can discussing their story and helping them to become better writers by telling them a good thing about their story, then instead of editing, talk to them about what else they could add (more detail in their picture, left out a word, add a describing word or

two). After about 2 months of writing (maybe one), then start editing. But be in a different place (maybe call them back to a table). This way they know you are being the editor and not their coach. Editing kids writing all the time is more discouraging to kids than encouraging. Begin each writing period with a minilesson (10-15 min. MAX.) You're really telling them what they are going to be trying today. Look up sample minilessons online (puncuation, adding details, etc.) We've done this every morning of every school day since Sept. They love it! We do the finished side of their folders too. Just let them put as many over there for a while as they "finish". Every month or so, meet with them and have them pick out two of their favorites for their portfolio (to show parents either at conferences or for the end of the year) then you pick our your favorite too! Then, about once a month kids will pick a story they want to edit and publish on the computer (we have a storybook program). Look around for expired wallpaper books (Home Depot, or any home furnishing store) for the covers. Have parents take books home and cut out the size you want. Then have them bound with that spiral binding that you like (that's what I do too). It's fun!! The main goal is that they are enjoying thier writing and trying new things everyday.