Certainly, it holds true
that learning is possible at any age. This week’s LIT102 session proved to be a
significant learning experience for me. Delving into the intricacies of the
writing process was quite daunting since it was entirely new territory for me.
This was definitely my highlight on this week. As a kindergarten teacher,
my focus has traditionally been on teaching students basic skills like holding
a pencil correctly, writing their names and forming basic sentences- the
foundational aspects of writing. Exploring this new teaching method was eye-
opening.
Approaching this unfamiliar process, I realise that it demands time and patience. Nevertheless, it is incredibly valuable for both students and teachers. Unlike a linear path, this approach to teaching writing is recursive. What I find particularly appealing is the continuous back- and- forth nature of the process. It allows for editing, error correction, proofreading and even incorporation of new ideas that might emerge during the
writing journey.
Even though I have never implemented this method in my grade level, I understand that as a primary grade teacher, I might be assigned to different grades in the future. Teaching the writing process has piqued my interest, as it presents an opportunity to nurture my students’ writing skills-a skill that, I must note, seems challenging for many students to master.
Have a look! You just might learn even more like I have.
Until next time, toodles!
Andrea,
ReplyDeleteYour reflections on the recent LIT102 session and your insights into the writing process as a kindergarten teacher are indeed valuable and offer a deeper understanding of the learning experience. It is evident from your post that you have had a significant shift in your perception of teaching writing, moving beyond the foundational aspects taught in the early stages of education. The transition from basic skills to understanding the intricacies of the writing process is indeed a fundamental step, and your willingness to engage with this new teaching method is commendable. Additionally, your drive to develop your understanding of the writing process exemplifies your dedication to fostering an enriching learning environment for your students.
Although I recognize the importance of the writing process, now more than ever as a student; I too agree that it requires time and patience - lots of it. Luckily though, this recursive nature of teaching writing provides opportunities for students to develop and enhance their skills continuously.
Your attached video was quite engaging and it can be a useful tool when teaching students about the writing process or as a quick reminder about the various steps.
Overall, there is no doubt that the writing process has its rightful place in the classroom despite it being quite a pain. I am ecstatic that you will immerse yourself in activities to aid in developing your students’ writing skills.
Keep on, keeping on! - Criss
Greetings Ronelle, it is true that the writing process is valuable in the classroom setting. I am really excited myself to incorporate this process into my teaching when I return to the classroom in January.
DeleteYour input just sparked an idea for me!
The writing process can be applied across various subjects to produce meaningful work. I had not considered that aspect before- it is quite enlightening!
Hey there Andrea, you are correct, learning can take place at any age. Students might think that as teachers we are knowledgeable of everything but this is far from the truth. I am in total agreement with you, in which the writing process seems very time consuming and requires lots of patience from both teacher and students. However, we got this. It's good to hear that you are opened about the process and is willing to try it at any grade you are placed in. In the future if you are placed back in kindergarten, will you ever consider trying this approach at that level? Oh, I almost forgot, the video you have selected is very informative and contains easy step by step instructions about the writing process. It was nice passing through but am out, chao....
ReplyDeleteHi Markeda, Of course! I will certainly consider using this approach at the kindergarten level.I will customize this writing approach to align with the developmental level of my 5 to 6 year old students. While adjusting this method to suit my students' developmental stage, fundamental writing elements like brainstorming, drawing and labeling and sharing stories will be incorporated. My kindergarteners can ideally begin to understand the concept of expressing their thoughts and ideas on paper, thus laying the foundation for formalized writing skills in the higher grades. As their teacher, I will in fact encourage creativity and provide a supportive environment ensuring that the writing process is successful at this level. Thank you for your contribution. This is something I have really thought about and am deeply passionate about.
DeleteMakeda I had a laugh as I read your comment because whenever my daughter asks me a question and I say I don't know, her response is "You're a teacher and you don't know?" She honestly thinks we should know everything!
DeleteWhile we do not know everything, the most important thing is being open to learning. We've got this!
Absolutely agree! Learning knows no age limit. Exploring new teaching methods can be daunting but incredibly valuable for both students and teachers.
ReplyDeleteRight on sister Kai! Despite my age, I am gaining a wealth of knowledge in this course. It is truly expanding my mind and I am eager to learn even more! 😊
DeleteI admire your optimism and your willingness to grow beyond yourself; that’s the best and most progressive stance to have.
ReplyDeleteBut, before I forget, I can definitely relate to your “particular appeal” of the “back and forth”, or in other words, the recursive nature and its significance to the writing process. I laughed when I read this because I, too, had multiple rendezvous with “Mr. Back and Forth”. My first, second, maybe even third draft was less than mediocre at best in writing. So, “Bossman Back and Forth” and I had a good old time in the past with all the nonsense I typed in early drafts. However, this recursive nature of the writing process guided me to really pull together my thoughts and align my ideas to where I wanted them to be, slowly helping me to mold my writing to where it needs to be.
Emilio, I am so glad you can relate to my experiences! "Bossman Back and Forth" has definitely been a quirky companion in the writing journey. It is reassuring to know others have had their fair share of playful struggles too. Cheers to the ongoing revisions and the continuous growth of our writing skills! 🥂
DeleteAndrea you are right, the writing process does demand time and patience, but as you said, it is incredibly valuable for both students and teachers. A. B Yehoshua once said "The most difficult and complicated part of the writing process is the beginning", and I concur! Planning is like trying to see the end from the beginning. It may be time-consuming to map out a part for your writing, but once you do, it makes the journey a whole lot easier. Think of the Planning phase as planning a bus trip for your class. Think of all the work it takes to organize and coordinate this activity. getting permission from parents, calling ahead at all the places you would like to stop so they'll be expecting you, putting a contingency plan in place for emergencies, organizing food and drinks and bathroom stops, and the list goes on and on. It's a daunting task, however, it is important to do this in advance to make the trip worthwhile and to achieve the objective of the trip. Of course, you will still have the challenges of misbehavior, crying, and motion sickness (spelling, subject-verb-agreement, incorrect vocabulary) to deal with, but all in all, you are prepared for the journey.
ReplyDeleteNow imagine not doing any of that before. You just set out on the journey, only to be told at various stops that "We're closed to the public today, we operate by bookings only, there's a fee to use the facility, or we only allow students 10 years of age or older and your kids are all five and six. Even worse, there's no place for bathroom breaks along the path you randomly chose. What a disaster! Oh, the frustration of trying to make it up as you go. The trip cannot come to an end fast enough, and when it does are you proud of it? That is a piece of writing without a plan!
Guess all I'm saying is you're right. the process can be daunting, especially at the beginning but it is so worth it. All you need is the right attitude and the willingness to do it, both of which you already have, and you're halfway there.
All the best in your writing!
Thank you Renel for your thoughtful insights and encouragement! Your analogy of planning a trip perfectly illustrates the importance of careful preparation in the writing process. I completely agree that while it may seem daunting, having the right attitude and a well- thought- out plan can make all the difference. I appreciate your support and well- wishes for my writing journey! I wish you much success in your journey just the same!
DeleteHi Lisia, I will definitely give it a try, starting with simplicity. Your experience gives me hope that my students can become great writers too. 😁
ReplyDeleteI am elated to see as a teacher you admit that this process is new to you since you are teaching the Kindergarten level and never thought to use it. I am also happy to see your willingness to give the writing process a try. Also, Andrea I have to agree with you, that it is great to see that this process is recursive at any level, which means you can return. I believe this indeed will be beneficial to the students. I admire the stance you took in putting effort into learning more about this process. Thank you for the informative video.
ReplyDeletePlease let me know how it turns out for you and your students.
You Got This! Andrea
Greetings Cordelia. Thank you for sharing. I will definitely keep you in the know about my experience with my little people. I can't wait!!
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