Writing

I have had a request to add some of the lessons I use during writer’s workshop. First I will share the schedule that I typically use during the day. As some of you may know I work with a high population of second language learners. These students are pulled for ESOL during the time I typically do writing, so some days I have to alternate my lessons so that everyone learns the skills I am presenting. The time I spend on each area really depends on the time of the year and what the students can handle. Some of these lessons come from my county and some I have created on my own or found on the internet.

Edit: I am now doing writing first thing in the morning. I have just started this and will keep you all posted on how it is going!

10-15 minutes: mini lesson

20-30 minutes: independent writing and student conferences

10-15  minutes: author’s chair and reflection of the mini lesson

Quarter 1 Examples

Beginning the writer’s workshop

Adding detail to your picture

Matching the picture with words

Using the classroom alphabet pictures

Making a list

Why we use a list

Adding to our writing

Changing our writing to make it better

What do I do when I am finished?

Going back and working on other writing

Labeling your picture

Quarter 2  Examples

Writing about a memory

Beginning, middle, and end

The big story

The little story

Juicy words

Working with a partner

Buddy conferences

Quarter 3 Examples

When I was little

When I am big

Writing about someone special

Parts of a letter

Writing letters

Using envelopes

Stretching stories

Making books

Adding to books

Asking questions

Quarter 4 Examples

Opinions

More juicy words

Responding to a statement

Biography

Interviewing a friend

Writing about kindergarten

Here is a link to some awesome Kid Writing Videos (This is the next book on my list!)

Watch this teacher in action!