Teaching Writing ~ Step 1 Group Activity

For some, writing can be the most cumbersome for both teachers to teach and students to learn.  Having reluctant writers can be challenging for any teachers to work with.  Either finding an idea to write about, having difficulty with the physical act of writing, or spelling, there are many ways to assist the students to make the process easier.  I have found it easy to break down teaching writing into steps, balancing engaging but yet helpful for students.  I would say this writing process outline is geared towards grades 3rd and 4th, but easily modified for 2nd and 5th grade levels.

1. Group Project or Activity

Recently, I have begun my writing units with a group activity that supports the writing topic. This could be students brainstorming ideas in groups, creating a group story, designing ideas, discussing their own opinions or a related group activity or game.  Kids enjoy working in groups, plus, ideas are being tossed around that will help struggling writers when it’s time to begin writing.  For some students who are very anxious writers, this can become a more comfortable environment for them to start the writing process

In the past, students or groups have chosen two random cards to write a descriptive sentence(s).  In this Haunted House Writing Unit, students in groups choose 2 sentences to begin a spooky story.   You could even use this as a whole class or small group activity by displaying two spooky pictures at a time and have the group discuss possible sentences or story ideas.  You would then generate a group short story.

 In this example, students in partners or groups begin brainstorming and design their ideal classroom.  This is an excellent way for students to talk about different ideas to include in the group plan.  However, some students may use some of the ideas the group does or does not decide to use.