'Work on Writing' has been an amazing addition to how we work in our Literacy Block. Our Preps have enjoyed the independence that this creates and the writing that is produced is amazing.
As outlined in 'Daily 5' it is important that our students know what their role is and what our role is. They need to know what the teacher does to understand why we confer and why they cannot interrupt that important time - as their time will come too! We make these anchor charts together and it makes a real difference to how learning occurs.
As stamina increases for writing and the urgency of writing takes place the atmosphere changes. These examples are from students who have been at school for only 9 months.
The set up of the room is important. If you want independent writers they must know where the anchor charts are and where all the equipment is kept.
We have a shared meeting space where the timetable is kept, groups are listed and tasks are identified for students.
Our Preps are able to choose how to write using a variety of formats. We provide some proformas like alphabet keys, rainbow words and checklists to extend and challenge our writers.
Our checklists are for point of need, so each cohort group has a colour and there are different expectations for each group. Our Preps know which is 'best fit' for them and will check what they need to do and work independently.
We also have books in our book stand that are waiting for authors. Children take a book that interests them and plan by drawing a picture, writing, read to someone to get feedback and then make changes if needed. While they are working on them they stay in their locker.
What an incredibly hot day! The jury is still out - was it 38 or was it 4o degrees Celsius? This year we have been to Werribee Park Zoo in the extreme cold and now this. But how proud am I of my grade and how they behaved, participated and enjoyed the day. We looked at old toys and got to play with marbles, tops, dolly pegs, washing boards, quoits, slates, puzzles and hobby horses. We panned for gold and found some, looked at a candle being made, where the wheels are made and enjoyed some old fashioned lollies. 
