Writing in the Classroom

 

Most people think I am crazy because I love to write. However, I am one of the lucky ones. As a teacher, I have the opportunity to help kids enjoy the art of writing every day. A big part of that has to do with my passion for language (and playing with language).

Getting reluctant writers to put their words down on paper is hard. There is no question about that! But, just like finding a genre or series of books that can lure a non-reader into the world of books, finding the right length, genre, and writing tools can help to lighten the burden for those students who can bear to put a pencil to paper without shutting down.  It all starts with their willingness to just plain write!

So, if you want your students to get better at writing:

• You have to meet them where they are. Let the grammar and punctuation go at the start so that they can just get used to putting words down. 
• Try different topics and purpose. 
• Make sure you allow for students to read their writing aloud if that is what they want to do.
• Allow them to free write their own crazy stories (even with a friend).
• Keep your comments light and celebrate the little successes.

I have had lots of students who have hated to write or have written as little as absolutely necessary to complete an assignment. I have also had students who loved to write- right off the bat and just kept going. As a 5/6 grade teacher, I do my best to lure them in to loving writing and once I have earned their trust, I begin the next phase of helping to make their writing better. 

Writing is such an important skill and although these ideas may not be new or may even sound silly, it can be very frustrating to work with reluctant writers and wanted you to know that you are not alone. If you need help getting a child to write, drop me a note and I will do my best to help!