After reading this chapter and reflecting on its content, I came to the realization that I am a writer! I make daily "to do lists", write notes to students on their papers, respond to email, create a weekly classroom newsletter, and add notes to cards I send to family and friends. The statements on page 47 about writing as a Recursive Process spoke to me. I am not comfortable composing or writing on the computer. My family pokes fun at me, because I write my ideas and thoughts on paper first, and then put it on the computer. My drafts are full of cross outs, arrows going here and there and items circled to rephrase or check spelling. It is just not the same on a computer for me. This newly discovered confidence as a writer led me to write "on the spot" in front of my class. My story focused on a special time in my life - a significant birthday. My efforts inspired my students to start writing about a special memory/time from their life. There were no webs, lists or graphic organizers. They had time to talk about their special memories at their table groups. The timer was then set for 10 minutes and away they went - putting their thoughts down on paper. I loved their stories! They were straight from the heart and very enjoyable to listen to and read. We are working together, using sticky notes, to make some changes. It has been fun!
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Mindy, the special memories activity sounds really neat! I bet your students loved it. Isn't it amazing how we are all different. When it comes to writing, I would much rather write on the computer. I think it all comes down to learning styles. Your comment makes me think that we need to keep that in mind in our classrooms too. Maybe some kids would rather write long hand and others on the computer. I can think of several young boys that I have had in my classroom over the last few years. Some hated writing, but when I placed them on the computer-away they went. It made all of the difference for them.
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