To meet the individual needs of each student, our school uses the Writer's Workshop approach to teaching writing. While writing is taught in a sequential and systematic way, it is still individualized for each student. Students are given opportunities to write in a variety of genres and helps foster a love of writing. Writer's Workshop allows teachers to meet the needs of their students by differentiating their instruction and gearing instruction based on information gathered throughout the workshop.
Writer's Workshop generally begins with a 10-15 minute read aloud & mini-lesson. This read aloud gives students the opportunity to hear a story they're familiar with and focus on the author's craft. We use Linda Hoyt's Interactive Read Aloud to find great mentor text that will cross over into Writer's Workshop.
The next step in Writer's Workshop is Independent Practice and Conferring (25-30 mins). Students are working on a specific author's craft while the teacher meets with each student for 2-3 mins to check in and guide practice. I used a "Goals and Compliments" page in each student's writing folder. This held them accountable for previous goals that we've discussed as well as boosts their self-confidence as a writer.
The last step in Writer's Workshop is Sharing (5 mins). This is a very important step! During the share portion, students contribute what they did during their independent writing time, either with the whole group or with a peer. This gives students the opportunity to observe and learn from each other.
Great website for small moments mentor texts! Young students have a hard time "zooming in" on a small moment for a story. This website lists several mentor texts that are helpful: Funky First Grade Fun Blog
Cute anchor chart for small moments!
Totally Terrific in Texas
This website, "Two Writing Teachers" is an excellent one for launching writers workshop in the primary grades. Click here for their site.
Great site for WW organization! Students keep finished pieces on one side and "in-progress" pieces on the other side. Check out this site here.
Love, love, love this site! ReadWritePlay is full of writer's workshop ideas, lessons, anchor charts, and organizational tips. Must visit! Click here.
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