#LearnLAP occurs on Mondays starting at 7pm Central Time. Guest moderators and participants discuss topics from author Paul Solarz's book Learn Like a PIRATE.
Phil from Northern Virginia signing in! I teach 7th grade US History II and am the founder of #waledchat which meets Thursday nights at 9pm. Thrilled to be here! #learnlap
We're the Human Restoration Project: an organization seeking to spread and assist progressive education through experiential, relevant learning. #learnLAP#edchat
Paul Solarz, 5th grade teacher in Arlington Heights, Illinois and author of #LearnLAP.
Major appreciation to @mandymtaylor for moderating tonight!!! Thanks Mandy!!
A1 I think sometimes its hard to get to kids to relate to some of the writing prompts in math/sci. I had them do a writing prompt with how they use math outside of the classroom and they all wrote about homework. Funny thing..I dont give homework LOL #learnlap
a1: finding writing assignments & tasks that meet middle division standards and also balance the large range of writing abilities of my students #learnlap
A1: As a former ELA teacher, I used to struggle with providing authentic writing tasks and providing student choice when the students were assessed on state tests with writing prompts that were the complete opposite. Eventually authenticity won out! #learnlap
I would say falling in the trap of taking a textbook's prompts in moments of laziness instead of connecting with the learners interests. I would never do this of course. :) #learnlap
A1: Every student is different w/ unique needs. Different writing styles, interests, ability levels, and more make it difficult to make every assignment authentic. Relationships and real world connections help a lot. #learnLAP
A1 sometimes authenticity and curriculum requirements don’t mesh. It’s hard to teach within the box and still get the quality product that I am looking for #learnlap
A1: something that has always been a time strain for me has been leaving feedback. However, @Screencastify has definitely changed that for me! #LearnLAP
A1: When I want to be in control of student writing, I tend to design contrived activities. The simpler the tools/structure, the more creative the kids can be. #LearnLAP
A1 - It can sometimes be tough to provide writing topics/themes/purposes that students relate to and allows us to meet our standards. But we manage! :) Also important to have an authentic audience other than the teacher & students! #LearnLAP
A1: Honestly making time. Writing is no longer a tested area in the elementary school so unfortunately it takes a back burner in testing grades. #LearnLAP
We try to incorporate writing in all the subjects in 4th grade since they get tested on it. I really enjoy having them write, but they struggle with it. #learnlap
My hardest part is motivation, We are very high achieving which means it takes a ton of effort to get students to stretch away from a rubric/points/grades. #LearnLAP
A1 The challenge was always finding those ideas and sparks that would illuminate inspiration for kids and have an impact. It lies when you try a one-size fits all approach. When approaching writing with choice and personalization. The heart lights up. Impact! #LearnLAP
A1: I'm always trying to find ways to encourage students to get their ideas from their minds onto paper. So many of my students freeze up when it comes to writing what they can verbally state #LearnLAP
A1 Creating authentic writing experiences can be difficult for my ELs because of their limited English. Sometimes I have to create topics in their first languages. #LearnLAP
A1 I have never been good with the mechanics of writing, so it is always a balance of focusing on the science, and doing honor to the ELA teacher and the skill of writing. #LearnLAP
A1: Writing should be meaningful and not contrived. The demands of assessment make it hard for Teachers in our district to give students freedom to write from the soul. #learnlap
A1 To make them truly authentic it can take lots of preparation and background to write well. Time can be a huge issue too because authentic writing needs to be well done which means lots of edits and revisions! #learnlap
A1 I have never been good with the mechanics of writing, so it is always a balance of focusing on the science, and doing honor to the ELA teacher and the skill of writing. #LearnLAP
A2: Workshop model, a good rubric, allow the students to have some choice in their writing somewhere. This allows them to be more engaged with their writing. #learnlap
True! I see so much emphasis on non-fiction/technical writing rather than creative writing. This is a problem because many content area Ts do not teach how to write technically meaning the job falls to ELA teachers. #learnlap
That's something I have been trying to consider more. I do not want to just write, I want it to be authentic! Less traditional essays and more RAFT type of assignments have been huge to create buy-in! #learnlap
A2 All students have to complete a set of Science Encyclopedia Pages for a key terms in a Unit. The largest part of it is an explanation in their own words. I really focus on giving good feedback, especially in the beginning of the year. #LearnLAP
A1. In my move to a new district this year, I see students view writing as a chore. I'm encouraging teachers to make it fun, original, and authentic instead of "Here's a prompt. Let's write about it." They are making progress! #LearnLAP
Absolutely, Jace! There are times I feel like no matter how many times I ask them to review they tell me, "It's fine." It might be "fine" but is it your best? That is the question I ask them. #learnlap
A1: Writing should be meaningful and not contrived. The demands of assessment make it hard for Teachers in our district to give students freedom to write from the soul. #learnlap
A2 You need to give more autonomy to students. When they have choice and voice and are guided they can plan their time. When they are truly engaged in meaningful tasks, they will be inspired and want to write more. You need to help them find their voice and their muse. #LearnLAP
A2: Maximize instructional time by removing all the talking the teacher does. Directions/predictable steps can be eliminated with procedures in place and expectations established. #learnlap
A2: When I do think-pair-shares. I have them write what they are thinking instead of just thinking. Then when they share they have it there in front of them. I also try to reflection writing at the end of a concept or unit. #learnlap
A2: Writing must be incorporated into all content. Reflective writing, writing for content, writing for creativity...when students write more, they will get better...just a matter of time #learnlap
A2: The workshop follows a predictable structure, so I say less and the kids write more. Also, look for writing opportunities no matter the content (math, science, SS, PE, Music) #LearnLAP
A2 I have gone digital with much of my curriculum. I am using @msonenote for the students to keep journals. This allows them to complete assignments at their pace. They often finish at home. #learnlap
A2: When I have the chance, I try to embed writing into other curricula. So in History, they write letters or diaries in the voice of the people we are studying. #LearnLAP
A2: include it in the daily warm up, extension part of the lesson, or closer. Something as simple as “explain to your principal how to do...” #LearnLAP
A2: I'm a believer in giving students a recipe and then they can bake the cake or experiment on the dinner. After notes to give them the foundational knowledge, I give them lots of open-ended time to write and live in the past! #learnlap@_on11@MHSLewisHistory
A2 - As much as I LOVE teaching the mini-lessons, I now use @WritingCityK5 for those and maximize ALL of our writing time to conference while they listen to the instructional videos & write/revise. More time for feedback! (I still throw in mini-lessons as needed.) :) #LearnLAP
#LearnLAP A2. Journal Time in the morning as we start the day..Writing in Math through Reasoning, Writing and Researching for Science..Try to always bring in Writing
A2. Use a mini lesson to teach the overall idea and the meet one on one or with a small group of students who need clarification or more support. Let them try it out first and then look for strengths and give students specific parts of the writing to make it stronger #learnlap
Hello #LearnLAP! I'm Jennifer from WI. I'm a former 4th/5th grade teacher who now advocates for writing instruction that is based on best practices, not boxed sets through #TeachWrite.
A2 Mini lessons and seeing some examples of the type of writing are a necessity for my S's. Otherwise we are on writers workshop model, students are in different iterations of a project #LearnLAP
A2 I like to spend a full day planning and discussing what we will write. Then giving lots of time, like a week, to write. We use GoogleClassroom to write in so I can comment daily or every couple of days. #learnlap
A2. When there is opportunites for writing, we need to provide enough time for Ss to reflect with thought of ideas to put on the paper, then actually write their responses down as they are engaged in the activity! #learnlap
Same here. But I also have many native English speakers who I co wider language learners because their formal language is so low. They just stare at an empty page... #LearnLAP
A2 Maximize the time Ss write by minimizing what Ss are writing about. Lesson design is important when we consider what Ss are writing about. #learnLAP
A1: I struggle with the balance between providing students choice for their ideas to roam free while not triggering writers block with too many options. #learnLAP
We need to find more ways to make writing a part of all learning. It's a key literacy and shouldn't be seen as an add-to, it should be seen as an avenue for discovery of new content #learnlap
Q2. Know your craft. You can’t teach what you don’t know. Learning to write made me a better T as I understand the process. This has made my mini lessons more succinct leaving more time for practice. Revisions are key to quality as that’s where the magic happens #learnlap
A1: Being conscious of always being inclusive is very important. Life experiences vary so drastically from student to student. This can be challenging to navigate in terms of writing prompts, so I always give choices. #LearnLAP
Q2: Our class doesn't focus on writing, but if it did, I might try to turn it into a game. Getting points for writing outside of class time, gaining experience and leveling up? #LearnLAP
Yes!! It’s so helpful for them! And they don’t open their docs, see a BAZILLION comments, feel overwhelmed and then give up. It breaks it into smaller parts for the kids. #learnlap
In reply to
@txemhorn134, @mandymtaylor, @Screencastify
Not in the way we did. They will never know the experience of going to the library to use the encyclopedias because you couldn't check them out.
I did a blog post that includes a description of the pages #learnlaphttps://t.co/RxQImASTTv
A2: Where is @CypArt? She was the perfect orchestrator of this last year! She used @HeyPobble to elicit creative writing opportunities, and she was able to coordinate the images to the reading genre associated with each unit of study. #LearnLAP#rockstar
A2: Writing happens on post-its, on the white board, in forums, Google docs (collaborative or personal), during creative writing time (T/R), blog posts, etc. #LearnLAP
A2: I think small group lessons in a station-rotation model work well. You can pack a lot more into a lot less time when you’re dealing with a small group + other Ss can be writing #LearnLAP
A2 Flipped classroom, small group workshops and conferencing all allow substitutions for traditional whole class instruction. Personalize your approach, be meaningful, differentiate based on needs. This will give more focused time for engaged writing. #LearnLAP
A2: I try to get my students writing in every subject area - for example, in math, I've asked "If someone said the answer is actually ____, how would you respond?" #LearnLAP
Writing shouldn't focus on external incentives. It should focus on helping kids see that they have a story to tell and important thoughts to share with others. Human connection is more motivating than anything else. #learnlap
Agree! Revising is key, and I feel students sometimes feel it is "against the rules" to change what they wrote. We need to give them the flexibility to understand no piece of writing is complete until they place their sign of approval on it! #LearnLAP
Q2. Know your craft. You can’t teach what you don’t know. Learning to write made me a better T as I understand the process. This has made my mini lessons more succinct leaving more time for practice. Revisions are key to quality as that’s where the magic happens #learnlap
A2: My students are most engaged with their writing when they have opportunities to share it with others. I provide chances to share they're writing about during morning circle and presentations for classmates and family. #learnLAP
A3: When you walk a mile in their shoes, you know how they feel. You experience same struggles, have similar questions, can model tour thinking and frustration. When you show students this, it makes the process real! #learnlap
A3: I can better anticipate where they might have difficulties. For me conclusions and transitions. I can help them with skills/strategies. They see me writing with them. It's not magic, I go through same process. #learnlap
A3: I have been writing a lot more actually, between https://t.co/DacioI4EWA and another project I am writing very frequently. It has helped me understand the thought process and the brain strain it creates. Helps me really consider what I want them to write about! #learnlap
A3 Dialogue journals have been the answer for me. The weekly conversation provides opportunities for writing practice while at the same time I get to learn so much about my Ss. I can model writing in my responses to them. #learnlap
A3: Writing is hard! Remembering how it feels to have writer's block or to not be able to find the perfect word helps us build empathy for our writers, and makes us aware of the strategies we use in these situations - which we can then teach! #LearnLAP
A3: Blogging and writing a book have helped me understand you really can feel stuck and wonder if your words matter. Feeling those feels helps me empathize with other writers (students and adults). #LearnLAP
A3 - It's always great to share "war stories" about being "in the trenches" and you can't do that if you don't write! I love sharing stories about blogging or writing #LearnLAP with my kids that relate to what we're doing. #MakeThoseConnections
As well, it shouldn't be limited to the English classroom. Writing across content areas is a huge way to determine what students know. I think writing is intimidating to content teachers bc they think "Uggg - grading." But it's the best formative assessment around! #LearnLAP
We need to find more ways to make writing a part of all learning. It's a key literacy and shouldn't be seen as an add-to, it should be seen as an avenue for discovery of new content #learnlap
A3 I started a blog recently, and really understand how hard it is to get inspired and write about something. I have not written a post in awhile, because I feel I have nothing to share. Need to get back to it! #learnlap
A3: It makes YOU authentic. I can discuss my own moves and thinking alongside my students if I am immersed in the writing, too. Really love writing with them--it holds me accountable and that is magic for Ss--struggling together #LearnLAP
A3: Writing more would help me identify & relate with what my students are going through. I often find myself using sentence stems when available or getting bored/frustrated when asked to write something, like in PD for exp. I have 0 time to write for myself. #LearnLAP
A3 Writing is a personal journey. To identify challenges, to share your story, to inspire, to use mentor texts, to build relationships, we need to write more. We should also write with students. I would write essays with lids to help model writing. Dare. Be creative. #LearnLAP
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A3: Writing in the classroom can highlight gaps in understanding, which offers an opportunity for discussion and collaborative discovery of the question at hand.
A3: I think if I wrote more I would live in some of my students frustrations especially on what to write about. I feel the same way about reading more. I think writing with your students can lend itself to modeling how to start or what to do if you get stuck. #learnlap
A2) I find writing w/in genres lead 2 authentic writing experiences. Narratives allow Ss 2 pull from their own experiences,non-fiction procedural allows Ss 2 write about things they know how 2 do&can teach others. I think part of it is writing to an authentic audience. #learnlap
Q3 Students can see your growth and realize that writing is something the even the teacher struggles with at times. You should also model what you want students to to do. Students love to help edit the teacher. #LearnLAP
A3 My S's have trouble with the process, draft, edit, revise, final. Writing along side of them would model the steps. Although we've discussed authors running through all those steps, I don't think they believe it #LearnLAP
I write on most of the topics I give the students and use mine as an example before they write. It shows them what I am looking for, an example of good writing, and can open the door to conversations about shared experiences. #LearnLAP
A3 Writing is difficult and challenging! ALL writing opens yourself up for criticism so I say not only should we be writing but also sharing our writing with students and others. If you can edit your own work with students, even better! #learnlap
A3: I think it helps us remember/realize what ss are going through when they write. It allows us to share experiences with them as a writer. I recently started a blog and it definitely helps me relate to their experiences more as a writer. #LearnLAP
A3 Writing is a challenge for all of us; however, I have started to reflect daily in a journal. I also enjoy writing poems and raps which I always enjoy sharing with Ss! #learnLAP
I mean maximize in the sense of how we might leverage the time we have with kids to truly be their writing time. I wasn't thinking direct instruction...But yes, minimize T to maximize Ss is a great start! #LearnLAP
A3. When we are doing writing in our activities, I will write down my observations with the Ss as they are doing theirs. As we share our responses, we compare the differences in the observations! #learnlap
#LearnLAP A3. Need to be more mindful of sharing anything I've done with the kids..Even if it's a short draft of something..I still needed to think about what I was writing, revise it..
YES! Research has shown how much more students learn when they write about it. There are lots of ways to do this...reflection journals, blogs, exit slips, etc. #LearnLAP
A3: Running five miles looks really easy when you’re sitting on the curb—so does writing. If you want to connect with your students and their struggles, write with them. #LearnLAP
A4: Sometimes we don’t REALLY know what we are asking or expecting until we experience it ourselves. It helps us understand challenges & empathize more fully with Ss #LearnLAP
A3: Teaching writing is not easy! Writing is not easy! But modeling that can be! I like to display my screen and show them what my writing process looks like in real time (even when I have to ask them how to spell a word 😬) #LearnLAP
A3: Writing more on your own as well as writing to the assignment ahead of time gives you a chance to anticipate hurdles, empathize with students when they're "stuck," and provide equality with students by sharing what you do when you're stuck. Writers' workshop, too! #LearnLAP
A3: When I get a chance to write, I deliberately try to apply my writing lessons to see how well they work. Like outlining. It's a pain, but I write better stuff when I use it. #LearnLAP
A2: My students are most engaged with their writing when they have opportunities to share it with others. I provide chances to share they're writing about during morning circle and presentations for classmates and family. #learnLAP
I think it's great that they get to see that you also have to look up words. That also teaches them what to do when they run into a word they aren't sure how to write. #learnlap
Students love to see that their teacher is also a writer too. It takes writing instruction to the next level. You are able to talk writer to writer, not just teacher to writer. #LearnLAP
A3: To be an effective teacher of writing one must write. It’s about sharing process, rejections, celebrations, perseverance, opportunities, and thinking. That can’t happen authentically without writing. #LearnLAP
#learnlap
I haven't taught formatting for a while. I'm more concerned with the content and demonstration of understanding, especially in a Bio class. I know it should be formatted, but I'd rather they get the material first, formatting later.
A4: "Write a 5 paragraph essay about X" <-- This is too vague for my MS writers. Instead I give them engaging scenarios "Write a report to President Truman convincing him to adopt X position" or "Write a journal entry as an MS age student during the Great Depression." #learnlap
A3. its helped me identify possible hurdles in the process. It’s also helps me learn how to scaffold instruction to help Ss see the importance of the process. Knowing the end goal helps to see why setting a strong foundation is critical. I value process over product . #learnlap
A4. Standard formats are gone. Since they all write differently, why make them fit into a box? All that is required is using correct vocabulary in explanations. #LearnLAP
A4) Trying to include several teaching points at a time. Now I have 1 teaching point. If something else comes up, then I might do a mid-workshop, or end of workshop quick lesson. However, less is more. #learnlap
A4: I've let go of requiring everyone to write the exact same format, same prompts, same structure...Offering choice in the process has led to more creative publications and more buy-in. #LearnLAP
I have students underline words they think they spelled wrong. If there is time, they go back and fix it - if not, that's just part of writing! #learnlap
A4 Letting the small mistakes go while focusing on targeted grammar issues instead. This makes it much less overwhelming and the student really can focus on one or two issues and the content rather than seeing a paper of red! #learnlap
A3b also being a doctoral student has made me see the value of specific feedback to my writers. Writing takes so much effort so it deserves feedback that’s targeted not just a grade and a smiley face or great job. Ss deserve to know why it was great #learnlap
A4: I don’t insist EVERYTHING gets to the “published” stage. This helps Ss focus their best energy on the pieces they are truly proud of & offers them more choice.#LearnLAP
A4: I don't too many structure in math and writing. I like to have them write where they turn the question around. In science I tell them they can't use the word "it". I really try to mimic anything my ELA partner teacher uses, so I can reinforce it. #learnlap
A4 The ELA Teacher and I have a conversation at the beginning of every year. I ask what 3 things he wants me to focus on when assessing writing in Science, except grammar. I am not strong at it, so I don't focus on it. Makes it easier for me to not get bogged down. #LearnLAP
A4 Locking Ss into writing for a certain amount of time and requiring a certain number of paragraphs. Ss write best when we remove barriers and allow them to showcase their thoughts. #learnLAP
A3: Also, I like to write an essay every year alongside my Ss. Major empathy. Like, ugh - I need to finish my citations. But this year I learned a lot about Pluto 🤷🏻♀️👍 #LearnLAP
If you've read "Learn Like a PIRATE" and want to connect with others at your grade level/your position, please add your name to the #LearnLAP PLN: https://t.co/yqOsvPp2kv
It's a great way to bounce ideas & questions off others in your shoes! :)
A4 I have let go of chapter questions, forced writing prompts and strict one-size fits all assignments. I have embraced more personalization and choice. I want to have all students be engaged and inspired learners. Deep and fun learning at all times. #LearnLAP
Q4: No more out of context grammar lessons. No more red pens. Look for what the writer does well and highlight it. I love using @writeguyjeff’s two stars and a wish for feedback. To build writers we must be encouragers. #LearnLAP
A4: Mandatory # of sentences. Ss would write the minimum # and leave out ideas or put in meaningless filler to meet a quota. Taking away a required number frees them up to focus on ideas. If a writing feels skimpy or fluff filled we can discuss during conferences. #LearnLAP
A3: I always have the goal to write more myself! It is calming and helps me get in touch with my emotions and thoughts. This would help me become more aware of how writing can help the socioemotional wellbeing of my students. #learnLAP
A4. Right now, it's getting Ss to write. Concentrating less on spelling and grammatical errors, and more on forming sentences and paragraphs which flow. #learnlap
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A4: I have stopped giving concrete prompts for them to write about. I pair them up and then have them select their topic within an umbrella concept and then write about it - mainly using Prezi or something else they can show the class.
A3: I think it certainly benefits students to see their teacher write. Of course at the elementary level it is critical for the teacher to model different forms of writing and editing with the students. #LearnLap
That is one of the best benefits of being a teacher-writer. We develop a heightened sense of empathy for our student-writers. (And YES, your words matter, Mandy! :))
#LearnLAP
A3: Blogging and writing a book have helped me understand you really can feel stuck and wonder if your words matter. Feeling those feels helps me empathize with other writers (students and adults). #LearnLAP
A4: let go: due dates, not writing with them, choosing for them, specific structures, teaching to the test. Ss take ownership, are genuinely invested in their piece, and desire to spend more time on their writing in class and out! #LearnLAP
A3 Dialogue journals have been the answer for me. The weekly conversation provides opportunities for writing practice while at the same time I get to learn so much about my Ss. I can model writing in my responses to them. #learnlap
A4: No more 5-paragraph essay. No more thesis as last sentence of first paragraph. No more number of sentences per paragraph. Student writing has been freed. They learn to trust themselves as writers. #LearnLAP
A4: Grading/ focusing on every part of every essay every time. So@stones we just focus on a good intro or good body paragraphs and that is what we conference about and grade. #LearnLAP
A5: Different content areas will publish at different times with different expectations. Offers nice variety, Also, Ss won't compartmentalize writing to just ELA. #learnlap
A3: It makes YOU authentic. I can discuss my own moves and thinking alongside my students if I am immersed in the writing, too. Really love writing with them--it holds me accountable and that is magic for Ss--struggling together #LearnLAP
A5: s’s no longer see writing associated with just language arts. They see the ability to write as a way to justify their thoughts in any situation. #LearnLAP
Q5: Kids want to get their ideas out into the world. They already do on social media and YouTube. PSAs, blogs, various media can be a great springboard for great writing. (Plus, it's a standard!) #LearnLAP
A5: Cross curricular is key. Students should be able to write in all content areas - authentic audience and purpose. I love when students defend their work or share with parents via digital portfolio or blog. Real writing for Real purpose. #LearnLap
A5: This year as part of social studies we wrote letters to aldermen to advocate for change in Chicago neighborhoods. INCREDIBLE way to double-down on persuasive writing and super empowering when they wrote back! #learnlap
Writing yourself will also show you that the steps are not sequential. Writers hop around between the steps. Few go from prewriting straight to publication directly. #LearnLAP
A3 My S's have trouble with the process, draft, edit, revise, final. Writing along side of them would model the steps. Although we've discussed authors running through all those steps, I don't think they believe it #LearnLAP
A5 Our life is never compartmentalized so our writing should not be. We should allow students to bring in their passions, other learning and inspiration into their writing. Help them make connections and share their learning & views with the world. Collaborate globally. #LearnLAP
#LearnLAP A5. I'm passionate abt this because there's always a chance to write in any content area..Could be partnering at grade level..could be across grade levels
A3 Dialogue journals have been the answer for me. The weekly conversation provides opportunities for writing practice while at the same time I get to learn so much about my Ss. I can model writing in my responses to them. #learnlap
So excited for this THURSDAY NIGHT chat as I happen to work at a school designed for students with learning difficulties including ADHD #learnlap#worldgeochat
A5. Ss see each class as isolated from the others when many are actually connected through writing and some content topics. A cross curricular writing activity would put the activity in multiple arenas and offer more chances for idea exposure. #LearnLAP
A5: It shows the value of writing beyond the ELA classroom. Writing and all of its genres help students to find their personal writing niches. #LearnLAP
A5 To me this is where the true AUTHENTICITY comes in. You are writing for a purpose, not just to practice writing. In science it is to explain your work, in SS it could be to prove your argument, in Math it can be to explain how you came to an answer. Real world stuff! #learnlap
Speaking of sharing writing, one of THE COOLEST tech tricks I’ve figured out recently is how to get feedback from a Google Form to send to a specific students’ Google Doc. Awesome for peer review/evaluations. Info here 👉 https://t.co/MqIbCyUAad#learnlap#edchat
A4. I’ve stopped using prompts (except when required) Ss need to write about their passions for it to be authentic. Also I’ve stopped being their editor and have become more of a coach. I used to heavily guide the revision and editing. Ss decide what to change #learnlap
A5: Strengths in other subject areas make excellent opportunities for writing& can engage Ss in different ways. Those pieces may have different places to be shared.#LearnLAP
A3 Writing is a challenge for all of us; however, I have started to reflect daily in a journal. I also enjoy writing poems and raps which I always enjoy sharing with Ss! #learnLAP
A5: It gets ss writing all the time! The more ss are writing the more opportunities they have to publish and share their writing. 3rd graders recently wrote a paper from the point of view of a water droplet going through the water cycle. Great sci & writing connection. #LearnLAP
A5. Cross curricular writing provides the Ss more opportunity to spread or send out a message, social media is an extremely effective measure , too, if utilized properly! #learnlap
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A5: Just wondering, is it possible to be a solid teacher in an area but not feel like one? I mean, I teach Bio, but I try to incorporate literacy and writing - I'm not really sure sometimes about if it's going well.
A6: #JoyWrite by @FletcherRalph has given me the permission to offer low-stakes, high-interest writing opportunities that build community and engage kids. I did it anyway, but knowing he approves, helps! :) #LearnLAP
Students need to write across genres, for multiple purposes, while always keeping the audience in mind. Cross-curricular writing gives the opportunity to develop critical thinking, while applying analysis skills, making connections, creativtiy and more. #learnlap
What an incredible writing experience, Paul. Your students wrote for an authentic audience and knew their voices were heard. They will remember this forever and it will shape their writing lives for a long time to come. #LearnLAP
A5: This year as part of social studies we wrote letters to aldermen to advocate for change in Chicago neighborhoods. INCREDIBLE way to double-down on persuasive writing and super empowering when they wrote back! #learnlap
A6 Although I'm new to this resource I'm going to go with Hacking the Writing Workshop for being new and relevant to today's classrooms by @AngelaStockman#LearnLAP
A6: In general having a principal and mentor in @ERobbPrincipal has been a great resource for my writing. His encouragement and feedback throughout all my writing expeditions have been extremely helpful! #learnlap
A5. All ts are teachers of writing. When Ss see that writing is everywhere they see the power that being able to write and share their voice carries. Being able to write is a key competency for future success. Writing can also envokes the 4cs simultaneously #learnlap
@TeachWriteEDU "Teachers...must be able to empathize more closely with the comrades in their classrooms than teachers who are merely war correspondents at the hotel bar..." #LearnLAP
A6 Book Love by @pennykittle Enticing Hard to Reach Writers by @ruth_ayres and A Novel Approach by @teachkate are my new two that will add inspiration for September. I cannot wait. They speak to my soul as an ELA educator. Must reads. #LearnLAP
A5 Our life is never compartmentalized so our writing should not be. We should allow students to bring in their passions, other learning and inspiration into their writing. Help them make connections and share their learning & views with the world. Collaborate globally. #LearnLAP
A6: When I taught first we used The Trait Crate, which focused on the 6+ traits of writing. Each trait came with a model book and lessons. I love how it connected real literature to writing! #LearnLAP
A2: We made it happen by deciding to dedicate a full hour of ELA time to the craft of writing & we look for every opportunity to write in other subjects; not just sentence stems, but crafting short paragraphs in math, science, etc.
A4: I am not a fan of monotonous practices such as copying definitions. Integrating new vocabulary into a story or relevant activity excites students and creates more effective acquisition of the writing skill. #LearnLAP
I absolutely think so! Of course we are all always looking for ways to improve, but I think the fact that you are incorporating literature and writing is awesome! #LearnLAP
I say the important thing is that you are trying. Your students are certainly getting more than if you weren't doing anything. Kudos to you! Keep going! Keep learning! Keep growing! #LearnLAP
#learnlap
A5: Just wondering, is it possible to be a solid teacher in an area but not feel like one? I mean, I teach Bio, but I try to incorporate literacy and writing - I'm not really sure sometimes about if it's going well.
I'm 20 years in, and never feel like I have it figured out. "Solid," in teaching is hard, since the ground is ever-shifting. The fact you're even thinking about it is huge. #LearnLAP
A7 My students set their own writing goals, with strategies they think will help them improve. We discuss them but they are pretty self aware of what they need to work on 😀 #LearnLAP
A6. I loved the writers handbook @JSerravallo. Ive also used several of the @TCRWP units of study. I’ve also been lucky to work with @pattyvreilly as our staff developer to help inform my practice. #learnlap
I disagree. Many students will need guideposts, clear expectations and more in order to write coherently. But it doesn't need to be drudgery. Give them prompts they care about & teach them to build an argument w evidence. Then add on creative openings, diff formats, etc #LearnLAP
A7: Goal-setting always took place during writing conferences. That shoulder-to-shoulder work is unmatched for powerful conversations. Google Apps helps tremendously! Myself is another story... #LearnLAP
A7 All done with conferencing for students. Writing goals are personalized for each student. Build accountability and engagement. Listen to their voice. I give myself goals. Often shre with some friends so they can help keep me on top of my deadlines. #LearnLAP
A7: During conferences have conversations with students about their craft and what they need to work on. Pick one skill together. I try to blog weekly - authentic goal. #LearnLAP
A7) My Ss r 5/6 yr old.We use checklists,&those help Ss set goals they feel they need 2 work on.This means lots of modeling and continued https://t.co/cGqp2Xbhfq really doesn't do much good if u only set goals once,but never go back to reflect & modify based on growth.#learnlap
A7: my students’ say is important - I want them to see the importance of my goals for them in writing and I want to know their goals, and make sure they know their own goals are equally as important #LearnLAP
A. 7 My Ss have a goal to be more comfortable with free writing and student choice and my own personal goal is to become a better writer and writing teacher by being apart of the Indiana writing project. #LearnLAP
A7: With Ss, we set goals within each piece in conferences, for the quarter, for the year--using @writingproject Analytic Writing Continuum. For myself, it's a battle. Daily. Try to share my goals with Ss and set time to reflect for ourselves. #LearnLAP
A5: Cross curricular writing that relates to local or world issues can lead to publications in community bulletin boards, newspapers, websites, etc.! If the writing is relevant to current events, opportunities for publication are endless. #LearnLAP
#LearnLAP A7. With Ss, I really like @KellyGToGo Method..The creation of goal together, check-in, the discussions that inspire more writing..For Me? Might start to blog..been saying it for months ☺
A7 Setting goals with individual Ss will equate to progress. Setting goals together as a class will equal success. A common vision will achieve the mission every time! #learnlap
I think we have to be careful with micromanaging student goals. Too much rubric and too much quantitative makes goals feel inauthentic. Need a balance. #learnlap
A1: Not all students are on the same level. I have students who write stories really well. And then I have a few students still struggling to write a complete sentence correctly.
#LearnLAP
A8: Relationships with writers are the difference between compliance and true purpose. Connections with students provide the basis for empowerment, both theirs and mine. #LearnLAP
A8: Definitely allows students to trust and feel more vulnerable when the relationship is established! Students won't open up if they don't trust you.
#learnlap
A8: Building relationships with students through my own writing helps them see that I am a human being, too, who has unique thoughts! Helps them see that writing is a vulnerable process that we all share. #learnlap
A8: There are three things that matter in school and learning: Relationships, Relationships, Relationships... You must know your students, they must trust you care about them and then you empower them to risk and fail up! #LearnLAP
A7: I’m always trying to keep my goal of free writing/journaling while my students are... but then there’s attendance, and hall passes, and so many distractions... keep working towards that one (personally) #learnlap
A7. Building relatonships with Ss is crucial. As you are working with them on writing, provide creative opportunies for them to engage and participate.Having Ss set personal goals where they feel improvement is needed. #learnlap
A2: We write in all subjects. We have math journals. We write on the back of worksheets. We respond to reading. We write as an entrance ticket and / or as an exit ticket.
#LearnLAP
It's my 10th year and I'm still learning a lot about learning! 😂 I Love that we are in a profession where we are encouraged to learn continually! #LearnLAP
Thanks to everyone who chatted tonight! Thanks especially to @mandymtaylor for moderating #LearnLAP tonight!
Please join us next week (4/16/18 at 7pm Central) as @bmiller_FSTS moderates on "Peer Collaboration."
For now, please jump on over to #tlap for more great discussion!
If you're on Twitter tomorrow (Tuesday) at this time (7pm Central), please join @mrsseibel5th for #5thchat as we discuss "Math engagement and real life applications." All grades welcome!
#LearnLAP
A8 It is all about relationships. That is how you know what students know, what they want to write about and how you can best help them. The courage, authenticity and risk taking of students inspires me to always do better. It pushes le to keep trying and innovating. #LearnLAP
I think we have to be careful with micromanaging student goals. Too much rubric and too much quantitative makes goals feel inauthentic. Need a balance. #learnlap
I agree. However, for our younger learners, they need major scaffolding in how to set goals. Typically, they don't know in what ways they can grow, so checklists serve as a great way for to teach them to be reflective. #learnlap
A8: Relationships with Ss helps me find ways to connect, offer personalized ideas for their writing--we are learning alongside each other discussing writerly moves together--it's empowering and liberating--learning flows naturally. #LearnLAP
A8 Having good relationships with students translates into You being aware of their writing when their personal voice shines through. You won't recognize their voice if you don't know them #LearnLAP
Thanks for great chats #NYEDchat and #LearnLAP. A double chat focus on literacy and poetry is like peanut butter and jelly! I learned a lot as a science T
Great talking with y'all tonight. Just posted something new at my blog -- "The Paradox of Personalized Learning" Thanks for the great chat. #learnlaphttps://t.co/3rfj5XgMMw
It was fun chatting with you, #LearnLAP friends. Keep up the great writing work!!
If you are a teacher who writes and are looking for a community of other teacher-writers, check out the #TeachWrite Tribe on FB:https://t.co/ACqrHnw04N We LOVE talking about writing!
#LearnLAP A8. When I watch them brainstorm, research, and I read their work..I'm very proud..Didn't do anything..They expressed themselves on their own.
Also, can I just say you are rocking it as a first year teacher!?! The fact that you are so connected so early in your career is amazing! It will keep you energized and improving all the time. #LearnLAP
A3: Sometimes I write right along beside them. I show my work under the document camera, & ask students for any corrections that they see in my writing.
#LearnLAP
A8: This is where dialogue journaling has been huge for me. It builds relationships, provides a non-threatening place to share and swap writing, it’s one of my favorite things to do with my Ss. #learnlap
A8: writing can be very vulnerable! Like in many other parts of teaching, relationships are key. When students feel comfortable taking risks and writing, they produce more and learn more #LearnLAP
A.8 Ss must trust you enough to write freely.. building that resltionship is KEY. Reading their thoughts, dreams and opinions gives me a small glimpse into their world.♥️ #LearnLAP
A8: Relationships with writers is of utmost importance. If they don’t see you take risks, they are reluctant to take risks. If they don’t see you share vulnerability, they won’t. When those bonds form, however, they last a lifetime. Ss come back. It happened today. #LearnLAP
