Think Piece #2

                After reading the first two chapters of the Best Practices in Writing Instruction, I have a very clear picture of what classrooms that have strong literacy instruction look like. For example, the authors of chapter one say that the “writing is on the wall.” There are a range of texts that exist in the classroom, there are multiple literacy resources and student work is displaying in many areas. Good literacy instructors also incorporate different activities that involve writing, such as putting together mini-books that the students have completed.

                I can relate these high achieving schools to my home district, which I am currently subbing in. Walking down the halls of Walberta Park School, they are covered in student work. From writing pieces, to artwork to projects, the halls are decorated with their hard work. Displaying student’s writing proves that the teachers are proud of what their kids have accomplished and want everyone to appreciate it as well. The students also love the feeling of seeing their hard work on display and like to see what their peers have done as well.

                Also in Best Practices in Writing Instruction, the authors state that “general comments pointing out how pleased the teacher is with the writing do little to move the student along with the writing process” (p 19). I can relate to this statement from personal experience as well. When I get a paper back, I don’t like how some teachers just write “Good job” and that is all. I would rather a teacher write comments all over it so I get feedback and can grow as a writer. I understand the importance to help my students gain self-esteem and confidence in their writing, but they also need constructive criticism so they can become the best writers they can be.

                I agree that writing is a process. One rarely sits down and comes up with a final draft the first time. It takes brainstorming, drafting, editing, revising and publishing. I strongly believe in the peer editing step because I think students can learn a great deal from their classmates. In addition to reading Best Practices in Writing Instruction, I read the Kindergarten Writing Workshop article by Angela Behymer. She explained the different steps of the writing process that she has her students complete. Her writing workshop lasts 30-45 minutes a day. I believe that students should be writing on a daily basis and it is extremely important to have high expectations for each student.