Activity Description

Preparation:

1. Select and review mini lesson
   1. Use the Lucy Calkins' Unit of Study guidebook to select a lesson
2. Select an appropriate text for a read aloud
   1. For example, use a book of poems when implementing the poetry unit of study
3. Prepare writing tasks and materials
   1. Prepare a writing folder and notebook for each student
   2. Include a variety of writing utensils and paper at the writing center

Implementation:

Launching the Writing Workshop:

1. This unit helps teachers gauge students' current level of writing and sets the foundation for the writing workshop program
   1. For example, better understand students’ concepts of print and their ability to express ideas in writing
   2. Learn more about Launching the Writing Workshop at http://www.unitsofstudy.com/toc_lc_lm.asp

Small Moments: Personal Narrative Writing

1. Students learn to turn personal narratives into stories by writing about their own experiences
   1.  Learn more about the small moments unit of study at http://www.unitsofstudy.com/toc_lc_ao.asp

Writing for Readers: Teaching Skills and Strategies

1. Students learn different writing strategies to write for a variety of audiences
   1. Learn more about Writing for Readers at http://www.unitsofstudy.com/toc_lc_nl.asp

The Craft of Revision

1. This unit helps students become better editors of their own work
2. Students learn about changes they can make during the writing process
   1. Learn more about The Craft of Revision at http://www.unitsofstudy.com/toc_lc_pb.asp

Authors as Mentors

1. This unit shows students how familiar authors use different writing techniques and strategies in their writing
   1. Learn more about Authors as Mentors at http://www.unitsofstudy.com/toc_lc_ah.asp

Nonfiction Writing: Procedures and Reports

1. Students learn to write about familiar topics for the purpose of teaching and sharing information
   1. Learn more about the nonfiction writing unit of study at http://www.unitsofstudy.com/toc_lc_lp.asp

Poetry: Powerful Thoughts in Tiny Packages

1. Students learn to take risks with their writing through a series of lessons on writing poetry
2. Learn more about the poetry unit of study at http://www.unitsofstudy.com/toc_lc_sp.asp

Adaptations For

English Language Learners/ESL:

- Use visual cues and pictures on anchor charts and during instruction
- Provide all students with personal dictionaries that include visual cues
- Use graphic organizers to visualize steps in writing

LD/Reading & Writing Difficulties:

- Keep instructions short and simple
- Present information visually using pictures and graphic organizers
- Model all assignments and tasks
- Break down assignments into smaller components and provide frequent feedback
- Provide checklists and/or samples of finished products

Cultural Appropriateness & Diversity:

- Encourage students to share their own experiences
- Include books that represent all backgrounds, genders, exceptionalities and avoid stereotypes

Differentiated Instruction:

- Use a variety of materials and visuals
- Include a variety of learning activities and centers

Related References

Additional Links:
Units of Study for Primary Writing: A Year Long Curriculum: http://www.unitsofstudy.com/default.asp

Evidence:
Jasmine, J. & Weiner, W. (2007). The effects of writing workshop on abilities of first grade students to become confident and independent writers. Early Childhood Education Journal, 35(2), 131-139.