Scenario Response 4

The student described in the scenario is a beginning writer. To assist this student in improving their writing skills I would: 

1. Explicitly teach each component of what is expected in the writing, including showing multiple examples of model work.

2. Provide sentence starters and a list of transition words and phrases. I would explain that the reader expects the ideas within the writing to “flow”, so there must be logical progression.

3. A planning organizer should be completed prior to the start of writing. I would look over and discuss this with the student so they have a firm understanding of what they are writing about before beginning. Students may type their work. A checklist of all writing components is provided. 

4. Multiple drafts are the expectation. After draft 1, students should read their work back to themselves and consider the flow and word choice. Can sentences be re-worded to make better sense? Are the thoughts connected by the author FOR the reader? Are words specific, appropriate, and mature?

5. Peer Coaching and 2nd draft written. 

6. Teacher displays high quality work and celebrates writing improvement.

7. Students keep a portfolio of their writing as either a file on their computer and/or the teacher prints out final drafts.