Kindergarten writing: How I teach my students to write when my usual way of teaching is not working. Slowing down and re-evaluating my students’ needs to meet them where they are.
There are times in the classroom when you have to take a step back and realize that what you are doing is just not working.
That doesn’t mean you are failing as a teacher, it just means that you are recognizing your students’ needs.This moment recently came up during my writer’s workshop.
Kindergarten Writing Journal
Usually during our small group writing center, I use a journal writing template that has space for students to draw a picture and write about their drawing. There is also a checklist so that students can edit their work, and 2 Stars and a Wish.
This template (it is a free download in my store here: Journal Writing Page) has worked great in past years, but our Year 1 students were really struggling with it this time.
Labeling Template
After realizing this, I made a new template that was much simpler– all they need to do is draw a picture and label it. They do not have to write out full words, I just ask for them to try and write the first letter that they hear.This has worked much better for our students, has led them to be more successful, and I don’t get as frustrated!
If you would like to try this simple template, you can get the free download in my Resource Library!
Knowing When to Slow Down
It is so important to recognize the needs of your students. Making sure that you are meeting them where they are and moving from there.I am always reflecting in my students and thinking about what is best for them. In this case, simplifying my writing center was what they needed, and it helped develop their confidence.
More Resources:
- My Ultimate Guide to Kindergarten Centers breaks down what I do in my classroom.
- Want more tips and tricks to teach your students how to write? Get Your Kindergarten Students Writing shows you how I do it.
- I wrote a post to showcase my Kindergarten Writing Center to give you an idea of what that looks like.
- Want to challenge and excite your students to write a book? Make Class Books shows you how I do it!
- Find out how I do Small Groups in my Kindergarten classroom to teach important skills like writing to my students.
Is there a time when you had to take a step back and re-think something you were doing in your classroom? Let me know in the comments!
Need more daily inspiration for your classroom? Make sure you are following me here, on Facebook and on Instagram!
Subscribe to my newsletter to get weekly ideas for your classroom:
4 comments