W is for Writer's Workshop

I love writing! Therefore, my students love writing, even the ones that struggle with writing. I have to say I owe it to two things. First, I use anchor books a lot. Thanks to the amazing writers in the world I can find an anchor book to connect to all aspects of writing. Thank you! Second, Writer's Workshop. Writer's Workshop in a nutshell consists of the following:

1. Minilesson (5-15 minutes) This is a short lesson that focuses on one topic. The topic is dependent on your students need. If you notice a common mistake in their writing, then there is your minilesson. I typically only have a minilesson 2-3 times a week. 
2. Status of the Class (2-5 minutes) Just a quick sharing to see what everyone is working on. Can be done weekly. It's a great way to provide interest in others topics.
3. Writing Time- (30- 50 minutes) Students write to their hearts content while the teacher has individual or group conferences. Time can be more or less dependent on the grade. Teachers can incorporate genre specific writing during the week. But the main focus of Writer's Workshop is for students to choose their own topics.
4. Sharing (5-15 minutes) Writers read what they have been working on and the class can provide feedback. It takes time for students to provide constructive criticism but it is a great time to celebrate everyone's writing.

I appreciate the flexibility that Writer's Workshop provides and the amount of time it provides students to write.