Writing Workshops and Conferences
Writing workshops? When I first heard this term I thought of a workshop teachers attend to better their writing skills so that they may become better and effective writing teachers. I thought during these workshops teachers learnt various methods that they can use in their classroom to assist their students how to write. This was not it at all.
After watching a few videos I realized I was wrong. Writing workshops do not include teachers bettering themselves as writers. In fact, a writing workshop is described as a ‘structure’ for teaching the writing process. I can therefore say that t is my understanding that writing workshops are sessions teachers use to help guide their students through the writing process.
The writing workshop comprises of (3) components (see picture below).
These are short lessons that the teacher model for students the writing process.
During these lessons the teacher will also model the skills that they would want their student.
Some of the tools that can be used are mentor, anchor charts, student printable and pair shares.
What is Writing Conferences?
The writing conference are normally done during the writing time of writing workshops. During this time the teacher walks around the class and checks on students individually which is known as differentiation. The teacher may also give the students pointers as to where they should improve and how.
2. Writing Time
This period of the writing workshop takes up majority of the session as it is about 20-30 minutes. Students are given the opportunity to go into into small groups or work independently.
3. Reflection/ or Share Time
This is done within the last 5-8 minutes of the session. During this period students are able to share their writing with their classmates or reflect on what they would have learnt. For example: transitional words that can be used, or the process of writing (brainstorming, drafting..)
When we think of writing conferences these are some of the words that may come to mind.
Though the teacher may see each student individually he or she may also have small group conferencing if more than 2 students are struggling in the same areas.
You may now see why writing workshops and writing conferences are essential in the classroom. The main goal of the writing workshop is the teacher modeling the writing process and having students follow the process step by step and becoming better writers each time.
As a primary school teacher I think that all teachers should conduct writing workshops and conference sessions. This will not only benefit the teacher as a writer but improve the students' writing skills each session so that they may become better writers. Students will also realize that writing isn't just a snap of a finger but once practiced it becomes perfect.
As a primary school teacher I think that all teachers should conduct writing workshops and conference sessions. This will not only benefit the teacher as a writer but improve the students' writing skills each session so that they may become better writers. Students will also realize that writing isn't just a snap of a finger but once practiced it becomes perfect.
Yes Mohanie, it is indeed important that teachers take time out of the week to engage in writing workshops. All three components are important as they each highlight an important aspect.
ReplyDeleteMohanie, I, too, thought that writing workshops were for teachers to improve their writing skills, but after engaging in class, watching videos, and doing my own research, I discovered that writing workshops are structured for students to enhance their writing skills. I believe that all primary teachers should understand the importance of writing workshops, since it is not only beneficial to students but also teachers.
ReplyDeleteThis was very informative. I agree that writing workshops should be a staple in our classrooms and can offer other benefits beside those written in this piece.
ReplyDelete