Writing Instruction Reflection

Reflecting back on the writing instruction I received, it's difficult for me to say whether it was more progressive or "empty vessel". In third grade I wrote a story; in fifth grade I remember finding vocabulary words out of The Witch of Blackbird Pond; in middle school I read The Pearl; in high school I read Shakespeare, William Faulkner, and many other classics. I struggled to identify the larger picture when I wrote essays. I still struggle today. I don't remember explicit instruction or modeling of the writing process but I'm sure I learned it.

I received a lot of one-on-one instruction during college as an English major. As I wrote essays, I became stronger at writing. The parts I struggled with I actually make sure my students understand. It was challenging for me to grasp active voice in writing so I now make sure my high school students write in active voice.

I teach my students writing through modeling, guided practice, and explicit instruction. Many of my students can write but overall they benefit from more direct instruction in certain areas. I also use the 6+1 Traits. This breaks down the major components of writing for students and we can work on certain skills in relation to different genres. I've noticed with my ESL students many of them lack writing skills in English. Writing is one of the last skills ESL students develop but probably one of the most important that they need to be successful in school and the world. Many of my students rely on someone else to help them develop their ideas. The 6+1 traits rubric is a great tool for ESL students because it breaks down each part of writing and they can focus on the particular skill.