Writer’s Workshop

Workshop Responsibilities • During writers workshop you should– Work quietly. – Work on your own writing piece.– Writers need time to think and it is easier to think

when it is quiet. – Stay in one spot; do not walk around or disrupt other

writers. – When your piece is complete, illustrate your work,

add more ideas, or tart a new piece with the teacher’s permission.

Everyone has a story to tell

• Writing is like telling stories and I know you love to tell stories!

• Sometimes you will write about a special topic that is assigned to you.

• Think about the story, you may make it funny, sad, silly, scary, or just simple and ordinary.

• When we get ready to write, think about all those things you are eager to say to your friends, and put them in writing instead!

Choosing a Writing Spot

• Today you will choose your very own writing spot. Some might choose to write at a table because that is where they focus best. Others might choose to find a quiet spot and lean up against a wall. Others might want to stretch out on the floor somewhere.

• Choosing a perfect spot is very important. You want to a spot where you can focus; a spot where you can be comfortable. Once you choose this spot, I expect you to keep it every time we are ready to write!

• Think about possible problems that might arise in choosing spots: too close to friends, too cramped, too tempting to play or chit chat. Make a wise choice!

• I will choose students who are ready to find a good spot and gett right to work.

Why do writers write?

• Why do you think writers write?

– It's important to remember that we are writing for the reader.

– When we write we want to do our best work because we want the readers to enjoy themselves.

Author's Share • We know that writers write so others can enjoy their stories. • Every day at the end of writing workshop, we will make a

circle for an author’s share session. One student will share every day so that we can all pay close attention to his or her story.

• If you are ready to share your story, you will sit on top of your notebook in the middle of the circle. You will do this quietly and without disrupting anyone. When I ask you to read, will you stand up and share your story using a clear and loud voice.

• While authors are sharing, nobody talks! We are all listening and enjoying the story.

• Let's practice.

Writers help each other

• What do you do when you feel sick? Do you ask an adult or a friend for help?

• During writer’s workshop you will have a partner to help you when you need it.

• I will assign you a partner and you may talk to your partner (and ONLY your partner) about your writing. You can help each other with ideas.

• Partners will NOT play or talk about other topics other than their writing! When you need help you can quietly ask your partner for help.

Lesson Time

• Every day before our writing session I will give you a short lesson about writing.

• During this time you will be quiet, take notes, and think about the lesson you are hearing.

• Once we break to writing time, you will sit with your partner, use quiet voices, and get ready to write.

Conferencing Hat• When all of you are writing, I will confer with writers. • Conferring means I will speak one on one to each of you about your

writing and your progress. I will listen to your stories and help you grow as a writer.

• Conferring is a special and important time and my goal is to confer with each of you once a week.

• When I am conferring with a writer, nobody should interrupt me. I will wear my special hat when I am conferring to remind you that you should not interrupt.

• If you need help while I am conferring, ask your partner, use a dictionary, your grammar book, or wait until I have finished my conference.