Shared writing is something that is very difficult for me. I mentioned in an earlier blog that writing is difficult for me. I don't like to share my writing, but I have (since is started this blog) learned to get over my fear to a certain extent. The book expresses that shared writing is important for all. I have seen teachers that have used it in their classrooms, but never called it that. In fact, after reading the chapter, I even have used it and never called it that. Anything can be used as "shared writing".
I liked the idea of cutting words out and working with kids to reassemble sentences. I have used word tiles to do this. I think having kids cut out sentences they are familiar with may even be a better experience. The more you can relate to a child, the more they will learn.
I plan on incorporating more shared reading into my classroom this upcoming year. Does anyone have more ideas I could use? I teach grade K-5 and 9th, so any and all will be helpful!
Jacinda,
ReplyDeleteIt is very difficult to get started with shared writing because it does expose us to the students. Perhaps we may not be the best at something, but it is powerful for the students to see us struggle. Then, when they struggle, they know that they can get past it to the goal.
Shared writing can be so powerful because the students come together as a community to work on a common goal. I know that I need to incorporate more shared writing in my classroom because it can be a great tool to check for understanding as the students process and work with the teacher.
Renee, great point about the exposure aspect of shared writing. It does make us vulnerable, but it is such a great opportunity for growth and clarification of concepts. Seeing something in action and participating in the "doing" mean so much more than just hearing about it.
ReplyDeleteWe do shared writing with our study buddies. (1st/5th grade) The first graders take time reading their writing and the older students help the students by improving and editing their writing. The older students read their writing to the first graders and they usually make it a topic that their buddy would be interested in. It's something about this experience that children love to share their writing and don't mind editing if there are some errors or corrections.
ReplyDeleteI am so excited to hear that you are overcoming your fears to share reading. This is exactly what we want our students to do. We want them to reach out and try something new. I really enjoy doing shared writing with my students. To help make your students become more comfortable try having them share with a buddy first. Then from there they can share with a group of maybe 4 or 5 people. This will help students conquer this fear and they will love to share their work.
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