Writing

Informational writing is introduced at the very beginning of a child's time at SeDoMoCha. They start with teaching others in brief all about books in collaboration with peers and the teacher. As they develop as writers, they learn research skills, craft moves, styles, and techniques to better inform their audience. Students are introduced to and practice an array of informational writing formats.

Personal narrative writing is the genre that is typically first in line in a child's academic career. Students have the most knowledge of their own lives and are taught to develop these experiences into stories that other want to read. Narrative writing may be strengthened by learning craft moves from favorite authors, working collaboratively with peers and the teacher in conferences, and practicing the writing process.

Opinion and persuasive writing is all about sharing your ideas with other and trying to get them to agree with you. Students write about opinions that are important to them personally, at a community/school level, and even at a global level. They are taught how to make claims, support them with reasons, and to collect evidence. Persuasive writing is done in many different formats depending on the audience and purpose for writing.

Interactive writing is a time where students and teachers share the pen while writing a co-constructed text. Together the class or small group make a decision on what they would like to write. The teacher models strategies they use while writing and students take turns trying them out while adding letters, words, sentences, or punctuation to the writing. Students then have a writing piece they can read together and use as a model for independent writing they will complete.

The purpose of reading is understanding. One way that students organize their thoughts about books they are reading is through writing. Writing about a book helps students slow down their thinking and share what they understanding is. There are many ways that students may write about reading. Some examples may include; summarizing, asking and answering questions, reviewing the book, writing in the style of the author, along with many more.

Along with the genres listed above, sometimes grade levels or teachers include a variety of other types of writing. This allows for students to explore authentic purposes for writing and create a passion for expressing themself through written word. Free writing and writing centers are often a time students are able to write in any style they wish. Students enjoy trying out poetry, list making, song writing, friendly letter writing, creative writing, and more!