Writing Workshop

          This year, students in grades K-8 are learning to write in the Writing Workshop during language arts classes.  This approach to writing instruction acknowledges that all students are writers and as such become skilled in the craft of writing through practice and work. Writing instruction occurs during Units of Study which last about four weeks. Writing Workshop consists of a daily routine of mini lessons, shared writing, active engagement, conferencing, and sharing. Students require time to practice writing in the same way they practice playing an instrument or a sport. Therefore, students have uninterrupted blocks of time for writing each day during active engagement when they practice writing to become skilled, confident authors.  Students most often choose their own topics to write about because writing should communicate something of importance. Student choice provides a good reason to write enthusiastically and to write well. Grammar, spelling, and conventional writing mechanics are addressed through mini lessons, shared writing, modeling, conferences, revising, and editing. In addition, students use mentor texts as they “read like writers” looking for examples of writer’s craft to help them grow as authors and continue to write well.

          During Writing Workshop, students use the writing process as they work on their pieces during active engagement.  Students are assessed throughout Writing Workshop as they practice skills that each unit addresses. Also, teachers conference with students and help them prepare to publish one or two formal pieces of writing.  These writing pieces are graded using an appropriate rubric.

          The Writing Workshop approach has been developed by leading educators in the field of writing. Our students will benefit from the work of many researchers and teachers who have successfully taught writers in this way.  We are proud and excited to begin this journey with our students.  Remember we are all writers!

Janet Higgins

Language Arts Specialist