Writing and writing instruction has historically been one of the most difficult
subjects for students. It has also been a fascinating and fulfilling processes
to observe, from planning to publishing. Whether teaching Kindergarten or third
grade students, I enjoy helping them through the process. But can students
collaborate to help each other? Can collaboration come in other forms? How about teachers collaborating with students? How about students collaborating with technology? These questions and more arose when I set out to answer my question: "Can collaborative writing improve individual third grade writing?" In keeping with the mindset of 21st century
learning, our future adults need to be able to work as teams, communicate both
verbally and in written form, as well as respect each others' views. So, too, as
a teacher in the 21st century, I need to assume the role of facilitator more
often, as students construct their own learning.Therefore, as a teacher who
enjoys teaching and modeling writing, I need to guide students as they embark on
this journey from collaborative to independent writing!
From "soup to nuts", throughout the writing process, writing requires feedback...