Monday, April 14, 2008

Build on Best Practice and Research

Regie discussing the National Writing Project's summer institute in this chapter ( page 267). I haven't been involved in such an intense writing opportunity, but I would love to. She mentions that she spent five weeks of intense writing and study, learning about her own writing processes. I would love to see a staff take part in just writing about what matters to them for five weeks. I realize that this blog wasn't motivational for many because the participants didn't necessarily write about what "matters to them". It was probably a huge "chore" for those who don't like to write. I am going to reflect on this and possibly change the focus next time we do this book study (if you have any suggestions...I would love to hear them).

One thing that I appreciate about Regie's book is her "Try It and Apply It" sections. On page 268, she lists several practices of highly effective teachers. Working with Buhler Teachers for the past few years, I would have to say that most (if not all) of those practices are in place in most classrooms. The first one, engaging in ongoing professional conversations with colleagues about effective writing and literacy practices, occurs monthly. This can sometimes be very difficult, however, because conversation doesn't always "produce" something and teachers can feel that it is a waste of time because there isn't a product. It can be hard to believe that CONVERSATION IS ACTION!

1 comment:

Mrs. Voth said...

I do feel much better about teaching writing because we have had conversations about how to teach and score writing, what is working for us already,and going back into our classrooms and practicing with our students. With your help and guidance, you have helped us become better teachers of writing. Thank you!