Reading: A Fresh Look At Writing by Donald H.
Graves
In
this week’s readings, Graves introduced us to his own strategies and how he
helps children to write. He
addresses the discovering of a writing topic, how he conducts writing
conferences, and how to share children’s writing in the classroom. He begins with a simple conversation
[with both primary and intermediate students] and guides them with simple
questions. This demonstration
shows students how writing topics can develop from actual events and life
experiences. To continue, he
models his own writing process—how he begins his writing with telling a story,
drawing a picture, and then transitioning from oral telling to written. It is easier for students to understand
the process and what is being expected from the activity when a teacher models
for them.
Something
else really stood out to me when reading A
Fresh Look at Writing. Every
education class taken, every textbook bought, and every strategy book read
reiterates and emphasizes how important it is to KNOW YOUR STUDENTS. It is important to recognize what
skills your students have and what they are struggling with. Knowing where they are at academically
and developmentally will make it easier for you to assess and plan out what
they next steps are for their learning.
Reading: Conditions for Effective Writing
·
Create a classroom that encourages writing.
·
Provide enough time and opportunities for
writing—give yourself enough time to conduct conferences, mini-lessons, and
demonstrations.
·
Your classroom should feel comfortable—students
should be open to sharing their writing and talking about their topics.
