A Look into Writer's Workshop

Here's a look into our Writer's Workshop...

At the beginning of the year we looked at different forms of writing and why writer's write.  I showed examples of writing I've completed but also used kid's work.  I found this cute poster at The First Grade Parade and had to make one!

We've spent time going over expectations and what our workshop will look like.  Students learned where to find materials and what to do when they think they're done.  They have worked on adding to their pictures, adding words, or beginning a new piece.  Here's a pic of my writing nook.  This is where kids find all of their supplies and refer to posters.

My kids made heart maps this year, filling it up with topics they could write about.  We talked about using our binoculars and focusing in on a topic.

Now to the writing...Model, model, model!!  I often start with a read aloud and then a quick mini lesson focusing in on a skill I want students to practice.  I model by thinking aloud.  First, I create my picture adding words or labels to help me remember what I'm writing about.  I begin writing, talking aloud, and having the kids help me.  I also show them how to rate their work.  Here's the poster I have in my room. This will apply more as they develop as writers.

First Grade Lyons' Den Rate Your Writing

Students then turn and talk to a friend about a topic they plan on writing about.  Then the writing begins!

I always start with the "Quiet Ten."  This is 10 minutes of quiet, uninterrupted time for the kids to work on their illustrations.  I play music (softly) in the background.  When the music stops the kids know it's time to go to writing.

When writing time is over the kids stamp their work.  This has been a highlight and they enjoy slamming that stamp into the ink pad and onto their paper.  This is a way for me to also keep track of how much they've written.

I will admit the sharing part has been the hardest part to fit in but I WILL find a way to get that in when the workshop is over!

I've been reading No More I'm Done and have found some great ideas that I'm beginning to implement in my class.

*Quiet 10

*Using a notebook with a tab for each student.  When going around to conference you just flip to their page and jot down observations about their writing
*Using an Editor's Checklist and individualizing for each child.  When conferencing you pick one skill you want them to work on.  This makes them responsible for examining their own writing.

Here's the checklist I created and plan on using with my kiddos.

Editor's Checklist