Writer's Workshop is a framework for teaching K-6 writing. During Writer's Workshop, students write every day for real purposes about things that interest them and topics they are studying. Students learn the craft of writing through responsive mini-lessons, practice, differentiated instruction and specific feedback during conferences, and studying mentor texts. When teachers embrace student interests and unique learning styles, they can change how even the most reluctant writers view writing.
Writer's Workshop has a structured order of events that occur daily.
1. The Mini-lesson
Writer's Workshop opens with a mini-lesson responsive to the needs of the class. The teacher presents the mini-lesson to the whole class. Mini-lessons are mini, so keep instruction time between 5-10 minutes.
2. Independent Writing and Conferring
Independent writing follows the mini-lesson. During this time, students plan, draft, revise, and edit pieces of writing. Students also confer with the teacher individually and/or in small groups during independent writing. The teacher is able to differentiate instruction during the conference to meet the writing needs of each individual child. Students will publish pieces of writing throughout the year, but they will not take each piece of writing to publication.
3. Sharing
Writer's Workshop typically closes with sharing time. However, sharing can be done any time during Writer's Workshop with partners, small groups, and/or the whole class. Please do not leave out the sharing piece. This is what gives students an audience and purpose for their writing.
"Writing instruction has little to do with kits and worksheets.
It's messier -- and more joyous -- than that."
Jeff Anderson
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