A Framework for Planning Units of Study in the Writing Workshop focuses on how to facilitate close study of text that leads students to a better understanding of the traits of good writing, and motivates them to become more accomplished writers. Participants explore the understandings, practices, and resources necessary to apply the popular mentor-texts approach to immerse children in a close study of published texts that supports their learning.
The seminar is ideal for schools and districts that would like teachers to better understand why depth can be more practical and effective than breadth in the writing curriculum.
Course Goals:
- Before there is teaching, there must be writing: Learn what's essential in the writing workshop
- Understand the role of vision in the process of writing and how to help students have vision for the writing they will do
- Learn to anchor the study of writing in real-world texts: how to find them, select them, and study them
- Understand the difference between modes of writing and genres of writing and the implications of this for teaching
- Discuss the role of approximation in learning when students take on rigorous writing work in challenging genres
- Explore a predictable framework for study that can be used to address any curricular topic in the writing workshop.
Professional Development
