As well as working on teacher-directed writing tasks, students need time to write for their own purposes while engaging with topics that are significant to them.

Independent writing gives students opportunities to explore ideas that interest them and to practise what they have learned during Shared and Guided Writing.

As the students write, the teacher talks with individuals, giving feedback about their writing as appropriate. Writing should be an enjoyable activity. Students should look forward to sharing work with a teacher who helps them to reflect on what they have written and to consider how the reader will feel when reading it.

Students should always have the opportunity to share their finished writing with a buddy, group or class and to see their work displayed. Sharing work also creates an opportunity to celebrate students' writing achievements.