This past week we worked on writing quite extensively. We used a form of writing workshop to finish the rough drafts the students were making about Thanksgiving and what they were thankful for. I am having a difficult time trying to find a good method of teaching writing. Its not that I can not help the students but rather that I don't know when and how to assist them. When they are stuck on ideas how much assistance do I give them? This is just one of the many questions I have about writing in the classroom. I asked my CT about his thoughts on teaching writing and how he approaches the students. He said that this is his weakest area and that many teachers struggle to find a method that works at all levels. This is something I want to learn much more about because I think it is the essential part of success later in life. Being a good writer can open so many doors in life. If you guys have any thoughts or suggestions It would be great to hear about them.
Another experience I had this week was making a pie in class. We made a pumpkin pie from scratch, minus the baking part right in the classroom. This was a great lesson for the children and gave them opportunities that many of them don't get at home. My center was taking the seeds and skin from the pre-baked pumpkins. It was very good to see a teacher doing a activity that builds positive learning and roles in the classroom.
Hope everyone else's placement is going well.
The idea of making pumpkin pie in the classroom is amazing. It sounds like it would be so much fun and something different for the kids to do. You mentioned observing writing in your classroom. I too have seen my CT trying to teach the writing process to his class and they don't seem to grasp it just yet. Most of them are in second grade and the others are in first. It's frustrating to see the kids not understand what I tell them, but, when i think back on my elementary school experience and it seems like it takes awhile for the process to really sink in.
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