In my nineteen years in the elementary classroom, I've found that writing has been one of the most complex and difficult subjects to teach. After trying many different programs, strategies, and activities, as well as writing workshop vs direct writing instruction, I've settled on what has worked best for me and my students.
Five Daily Writing Strategies that Help Students Succeed
Step One: Show the Students a Simple Model.
Imagine trying to write an opinion piece, or say a compare-contrast piece, and you've never seen or read one? Sometimes this happens to our students. Before each writing assignment, make sure you show your students the end result that's expected. It's only fair.
"Mentor texts" are often used by educators to inspire and teach students. They provide examples of good writing that kids are asked to emulate and learn from. However, in my opinion, these mentor texts, which are published pieces by professional writers, are often too advanced and complex to be helpful to students. Such has been my experience as an upper elementary writing teacher. Therefore, I've taken to writing my own models that show students a simple, basic piece similar to the one they are asked to produce. In addition, it is color coded to highlight the underlying structure. This helps them learn how each genre of writing is crafted.
Step Two: Study a Completed Model Graphic Organizer.
Similar to sharing with students a model of the finished product, read and discuss with your students the graphic organizer that was used to complete the finished product. Let them clearly see how the graphic organizer doesn't have to have complete sentences, but does have to include specific details. Made a connection in your students' minds with the notes in the organizer (I like to call them "Idea Organizers") and the sentences in the paragraph.
Third Step: Organize Ideas and Pre-write.
Teach and demonstrate the graphic organizer when unfamiliar to students. If the kids are familiar with the graphic organizer, some will be able to use it independently to pre-write. There are some students who will need small group guidance for this step. Be generous with your assistance.
Fourth Step: Create Paragraphs from Graphic Organizers
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At the beginning of the school year, model this process as much as students need it. Later on, you can model in small groups instead of with the whole class. Over the course of the year, vary your approach from demonstration and shared writing, to just getting them started, to fully independent writing time.
Fifth Step: Share the Writing!
Most students enjoy this part. There are various ways to share and it's important to change them up. Students may share 1) with a partner or friend, 2) in small groups, 3) with a teacher, 4) with the whole class, 5) by listening to others.
Summary of the Five Daily Writing Instruction Strategies
Show students a simple model of a similar finished piece.
Share and discuss a model of a similar completed graphic organizer.
Pre-write by jotting ideas in a blank graphic organizer.
Craft sentences from the notes in the graphic organizer.
Let students share their work.
For more details on implementing each of the five steps, click here.
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