Writing

This year we will be using Writing Workshop to guide our writing instruction. We will be working with different units which include:

• • • • • Crafting True Stories

        • Art of Information Writing

        • Changing the World: Persuasive Speeches, Petitions, and Editorials

        • Once Upon a time: Adapting and Writing Fairytales

Mini-Lesson

When writing begins each day, we gather on the carpet and begin with a mini-lesson. During this time, a new "teaching point" or skill is introduced. This skill is modeled and then students are given the opportunity to practice by "turning and talking" to their writing buddy.

Independent Writing

After the mini-lesson, students are given the opportunity to practice the skill modeled during the mini-lesson using their own writing in their Writing Notebook. Students write for approximately 25-30 minutes using the following process:

• • • • • • • • • Brainstorming

                • Drafting

                • Conferencing

                • Revising

                • Publishing

While students are writing, I conference with individual students. During my conferences, I read students' stories, engage in discussions, and offer an additional "teaching point" for students to practice. I use a checklist to track my conferences and drive further instruction.

Closing

At the end of the lesson, students will have the opportunity to share what they have learned and self reflect.