Developing Writers: A Workshop for High School Teachers

Workshop 1

Key Points

Things To Consider

In the Classroom

Additional Resources

workshop 1 guide
(PDF)

Things To Consider

"The most important thing a writing teacher needs to consider is the ongoing structure of the class."

- Lucy Calkins

JUMP TO WORKSHOP

We all know that planning is a good idea. But where do you start? Take a look at this analysis to start thinking about where you are going and how you will know when you get there.
In an interview for this project, Lucy Calkins, one of the founders of writing workshop philosophy and structure, said this about planning:
". . . the most important thing a writing teacher needs to consider, as you plan your year is, first of all, what will the ongoing structures be like? A writing workshop needs to be simple and predictable so that kids can be active and planful. So a teacher needs to say, 'How will every day go in this writing workshop? What will be on the ongoing structures?' And we need to create time for kids to write-and to write in school-and we need to create time for kids to talk with each other and to receive coaching on their writing."

Think about the time your class concentrates on writing. What percent of that time is spent:

Writing? %

Talking with each other about their writing? %

Getting "coached" on their writing? %

% TOTAL
In announcing NCTE's new Writing Initiative, Past President David Bloom said, "Learning to write and write well is important for academic achievement and for success in business and the professions. It is a crucial skill for participating in a democratic society such as ours."
What do you think is the most important skill students gain by learning to write well? Share your thoughts on Channel-Talk.
Want to know the full range of national and state standards and benchmarks on writing? Search or browse the Mid-Continent Research for Education and Learning's extensive site.

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				INTERACTIVES
				Arbiter
				Build a Rubric
				Writer's Notebook