the writing workshop

The Kindergarteners have been writing in many different ways since the very beginning of school. They have created an extensive library of little books about Fall and leaves. All have responded to prompts through our morning message and community building work. Many have started to create books about the letters we're learning. It has been powerful to observe and be a part of. These moments have reminded me of an important concept; children bring the colors, life, and stories to the classroom. Literacy is part of all that we do and can be supported and encouraged in meaningful and rich ways.

That being said, this past week I introduced the writing workshop - following the model of a mini lesson, teaching point, and independent work time. As with all learning experiences, the share at the end of the workshop was incredibly important. There are helpful and relevant lessons and examples in the program that we use, but for me the most important parts of writing in Kindergarten are to nurture a love for stories and representation, to develop a culture of storytelling, and to encourage children to recognize the power in their voice and in their words. What they have to say is important and they can make an impact on our world.

Throughout the year we have recognized the different kinds of books we read and the authors and illustrators of these books. For the beginning of our writing workshop, the children dive deep into writing teaching books - teaching their audience about something that they know a lot about.

 

 


AM shares her writing about horses, teaching us about the different things horses like to eat and play.

The following day, the children illustrated a cover for their writing folders. I modeled and we practiced putting work in the pockets of a folder - ensuring that work does not get crumbled or bent. The children were careful and slowly slid their work inside their folder.

When you walk with your writing folder, you make sure your pockets are down, so that your writing doesn't slide out. Writers and readers always hold their work upright and in the correct direction. The children's covers were so unique and a wonderful representation of their humor and interests. Over the weekend, I have attached their covers to the front of their plastic blue writing folders - this year's home for all of their powerful work.

"This is me with trees. I'm wearing a blue shirt, because I love it. I'm also wearing a little party hat on my head!" - TJ

"I drew a pencil, because we write with pencils" - EO