Reading and Writing Workshops

Reading and writing workshops are very similar. In both workshops, students are allowed to make their own decision. They are allowed to choose a book to read in reading workshops, and they can pick a topic to write about in writing workshops. This way, students are able to take ownership for their work because it is what they wanted to do. In both situations, teachers should teach workshop procedures so that students know and understand what they should be working on during the period. Teachers should also have minilessons during workshop time. Topics for minilessons should relate to concepts, skills, and strategies that students should use when reading or writing. Topics can also be chosen based on observations of students and questions they may have during the class. In both workshops, teachers should also conference with students. This allows teachers to talk to students about what they are reading or writing. They can help clarify any questions they may have, as well as individually help them improve their skills because you are looking at their work specifically, not just addressing the class as a whole. I like the idea of reading and writing workshops because it gives students options and they are more likely to enjoy what they chose to do over what they are told to do. I think these workshops should definitely be used in classrooms.