Learn how to apply the six traits of writing
from an author who uses them everyday.

Classroom writing workshops take place in the classroom. I write with one class at a time (30 students maximum) so I can work with each student individually. My specialty is helping students overcome writer's block!

For grade four I teach specific skills that will help students with the TAKS Writing composition. I will guide the students through the first two traits of writing, ideas and organization.

Here is my lesson plan step by step:

1. Start small!
Avoid writer's block!
Start with one teeny, tiny word...your topic!
TAKS Writing Objective #1: Students will "respond directly to the prompt."

2. Remember what happened.
Use story boxes to help you remember what happened.
Write a phrase, just 2 or 3 words, in each box.
TAKS Writing Objective #1: Students will "develop their ideas in depth."

3. Find the real beginning.
Where do your boxes start talking about your topic?
This is where your story starts!
Cross out the boxes before the real beginning.
TAKS Writing Objective #1: Students will "remain focused on the topic."

4. Find the real ending.
Where do your boxes stop talking about your topic?
The last box on your topic is where your story ends.
Cross off the boxes after the real ending.
TAKS Writing Objective #1: Students will "remain focused on the topic."

5. Magnify the middle, part 1.
Did you skip anything?
Add more boxes to the middle if you remember anything else.
TAKS Writing Objective #1: Students will "organize their ideas."

6. Magnify the middle, part 2.
Add more details to your story boxes.
These details will make your story come alive...
and show your voice as a writer.
TAKS Writing Objective #1: Students will "express an individual voice."

Each student will prewrite their composition during this session.