Practice Makes Perfect! But do we actually practice?

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Everyone knows the saying “Practice makes perfect” but just how many of us actually take the time out to practice our craft? As a teacher, how many of us take the time to practice our writing skills?

Have you ever read a blog about things to implement in the classroom to optimize the learning experience? Have you ever saved something on Pinterest promising to utilize it in the classroom?

The truth is that we talk a lot! But… we do not do as much as we should. In order to make your classroom atmosphere light and learner friendly, here are five of the best practices for writing that I 100% recommend!



Number One:
Revise, Edit and Proofread.

Revise the piece to ensure that the main idea is clear and that the writing is concise.
Edit the piece by analyzing each sentence for clarity, efficiency and grammar.
Proofread the piece by rereading it one last time before publication. Be on the lookout for any errors missed.
It is important that we not only teach our students to revise, edit and proofread but also we, ourselves should model it for our students. 

Number Two:
Give more time to write.

It is imperative that we allow students enough time to write. When we looked at Writing Workshops in Week Two, we recognized then that it is important for students to have “Work Time.” The more chances students get to write, the more chances they have to practice… and practice makes perfect.

 Number Three:
Read to students and encourage them to read more. 

Reading is like breathing in. Writing is like breathing out – Pam Allyn. I believe that the more students read, the better they will become at writing. Reading books by well known authors can assist students in writing because it allows them to see how different genres of books are developed. Students are also able to expand their understanding, develop language skills and unlock the doors of their imagination.

Number Four:
Give Feedback!

I cannot stress this enough. Feedback! Feedback! Feedback! This is a crucial part of helping students to become better writers. As adults we need a little guidance every now and then… I know I do. Sometimes I need someone to let me know that I am on the right track. Feedback is important to young writers as it helps to build their confidence, helps them to better their writing and become more enthusiastic about future writing projects.

Number Five:
Engage in Conferencing.

It is not a coincidence that we spoke about writing conferences last week. In case you forgot, writing conferences gives teachers an opportunity to have goal-oriented, instructional 1:1 time with students; but it can also be done in small groups of students who share the same struggle. This not only allows the teacher to give individualized feedback but it also allows for differentiation in the classroom.

 

There they are… Five of my best practices to help students and teachers alike with writing.
100% guaranteed to work but only if you practice them. 

-Onida Tyrell

Comments

  1. Zoe ClarkeOctober 3, 2021 at 5:35 PM

    Onida, I wholeheartedly agree with these practices and will certainly use them when I return to the classroom. Naturally, feedback should be emphasized since it is critical for students to strengthen not just their writing but also to boost their confidence. Onida, this blog is well put together! I love all of these practices!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Onida T.October 17, 2021 at 8:10 PM

      Yes Zoe, feedback is indeed important. We all like it when we are aware of out mistakes and shortcomings so that we can improve upon them. I am glad that you are enjoying the blog posts thus far! I cannot wait to see how you implement these practices into the classroom.

      Delete
  2. Kathlyn HobsonOctober 8, 2021 at 4:18 PM

    Onida I totally agree that indeed practice makes perfect. I love all these practices definitely will use the, within the classroom.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Onida T.October 17, 2021 at 8:09 PM

      I am happy that you have been enjoying the posts and I cannot wait to hear all about the successes that have come forth from you practicing these.

      Delete
  3. WilliamsDecember 2, 2021 at 10:23 AM

    Practice definitely makes perfect. I know sometimes it can be a bit tedious and we can become a bit discouraged but as teachers it is important that we encourage our students to push through and practice their writing if they wish to become proficient writers.

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownDecember 8, 2021 at 10:43 PM

    Williams, I totally agree. Practice can definitely be tedious especially when you have to do, redo and redo some more. But it is important. Feedback is also important. Students require feedback so that they can make the necessary adjustments and improve. i 100% recommend these practices as well. Thank you.
    -P. Hodge

    ReplyDelete

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