WRITING WORKSHOP
6th Grade
Mrs. Kramer - Room 109
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What is Writing Workshop?
Throughout this school year, your child will grow as a reader and writer, and in this class, he or she will experience more engaging, efficient, and effective writing instruction through a combination of process and prompt writing.
We will explore three genres this school year: Narrative, Argument, and Informational. Within these genres, as we move through the stages of the writing process, we will apply the 6-Traits of Writing: Idea Development, organization, word choice, voice, sentence fluency, and conventions. Grammar usage, mechanics, spelling and vocabulary skills will also be further developed throughout the year.
Process vs. Prompt Writing:
Process Writing:
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Usually takes 6-8 weeks.
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Student focuses on a specific text type and genre.
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Student writes for a specific intended audience.
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Student has choice within boundaries.
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Every day, a specific writing strategy is taught.
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Student will spend multiple days in each stage of the writing process.
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Student will view him or herself as a writer, and learn to value each
step of the writing process, with the product being an “added bonus.”
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Prompt Writing:
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Usually takes one sitting.
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Has specific prompt/task connected to it.
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Less explicit instruction, more assignment based.
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Student goes through a condensed “writing process” in one sitting. ​​​​​
Grading Policy:
In this class, we will use the total points system. Each assignment is given a point value. The quarter average/grade is determined by adding up all the points earned and comparing it to the total number of points the student was able to earn for that specific quarter.
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Although there will not be tests given, quizzes will be given and graded accordingly.
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For process writing, there will be an ongoing assessment of student work, where your child’s progress and growth will be tracked. Your child will know exactly what is expected and be provided with a specific rubric stating these expectations. Further, your child will have many opportunities to do well through revision.
Required Supplies:
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Composition Notebook(stays in class)
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Writing Folder (stays in class)
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Take-Home Folder (take to and from school)
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Writing Utensils: pencils, green pen (provided), purple pen (provided)
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Chromebook