Class 8: The Writing Process

If you thought the reading process was complex, take a look at this image of the elements of the writing task, developed by our professor, Barbara Welsford:

I realized I take so much for granted when it comes to writing! We watched two videos: Low Tech AT for Writing and Pencil Grip, Positioning and Handwriting, which provided further perspectives on how we can support writing. Programs like Inspiration/Kidspiration, and apps like Clicker Connect were also demonstrated.

Following this class, I was particularly interested in observing all these elements at play during Writer's Workshop in my classroom. My students love to write, and engage in the task enthusiastically. On Friday afternoon, following a very exciting Open House for their families (which ended with having lunch together), students had an opportunity to write in their Journals. With their Writer's Notebooks, Word Study folders, and Journals, they spread themselves out around the room to write. Preparation for the task included sharpening pencils, finding a comfortable place to write, accessing technology for speech recognition. rereading ideas from their Writer's Notebooks, and having conversations with a partner about their topic.These were some of the processes I could observe. As I moved through the room I marvelled at what they were able to do... at what they had under control in order to do what they did...  and so much was invisible to me: it was happening inside their heads. What I love most is that the children see themselves as writers, and take pride in what they write. I hope that passion stays with them!