Writing is a process, therefore, I use a process approach to writing. Preparation strategies such as graphic organizers, webs, and maps will aid students in developing and selecting ideas. Your child will collect and develop ideas in a Writer’s Notebook. This tool will be used to encourage students to write. Students will have many opportunities to use their imagination and creative writing skills in this notebook.
Through the writing process, students will be taught to revise (add, delete, expand, clarify where appropriate) and edit (correct structure, punctuation and spelling), so that they can produce a published piece of writing. Throughout the year, students will demonstrate improvement in organization, content, paragraph development, and detail in their compositions after completing the steps in the writing process.
Writer's Workshop Steps
*Students complete a planning sheet that assists them in organizing their ideas to prepare for their writing.
*Students write a rough draft using a BLUE pen. They write a line, skip a line, to make it easier to read, revise and edit.
*Students revise their writing using a GREEN pen. When revising, students make their writing better.
*Students edit their writing using a RED pen. When editing, students correct their own writing.
*Students write a final copy after conferencing with their teacher. The final copy is written in pencil so corrections can be made.
*Students will be given the opportunity to publish some of their writings using the computer.
Genres of Writing
Expository:
Expository writing seeks to inform, explain, clarify, define or instruct.
The general characteristics of expository writing include...
Narrative Writing:
Narrative writing tells a story or part of a story.
The general characteristics of narrative writing include...
Persuasive Writing:
Persuasive writing intends to convince the reader of a stated opinion or belief.
The general characteristics of persuasive writing include:
Expository:
Expository writing seeks to inform, explain, clarify, define or instruct.
The general characteristics of expository writing include...
- focus on main topic
- logical supporting facts
- details, explanations, and examples
- strong organization
- clarity
- unity and coherence
- logical order
- smooth transitions
Narrative Writing:
Narrative writing tells a story or part of a story.
The general characteristics of narrative writing include...
- plot structure
- introduction
- rising action
- climax
- falling action
- resolution
- conflict
- characterization
- setting
- theme
- point of view
- sequencing
- transitions
Persuasive Writing:
Persuasive writing intends to convince the reader of a stated opinion or belief.
The general characteristics of persuasive writing include:
- stated position or belief
- factual supports
- persuasive techniques
- logical argument
- call to action