Another invaluable resource from Kelly Gallagher. Effective writing instruction is all about modeling (being willing to write--sometimes poorly--in front of your kids) and immersing students in real-world mentor texts. I like how it's broken into six different real-world purposes for writing: Express and Reflect, Inform and Explain, Evaluate and Judge, Inquire and Explore, Analyze and Interpret, and Take a Stand/Propose a Solution. I'm curious if Gallagher divides his teaching year accordingly, or if students can dabble in these different purposes as the need/desire arises. And if it's the latter, how are mini-lessons organized? As an English teacher, I'm confronted with a big, nauseating commentary/question on a regular basis: "These kids don't know how to write. How do you teach kids to write?" Sometimes it is phrased as a lament about the downfall of composition. Sometimes we talk about bad writing as an epidemic--as if all the inkwells from the Staples headquarters were filled with H1N1. Sometimes I say it to myself and then feel sicker. The consensus is similar--teachers are unimpressed with students' writing (and, by in large) with the writing they read from adults.But Kelly Gallagher doesn't allow this question to intimidate him. He carefully, methodically reviews the steps he takes to help students notice multiple purposes for writing in mentor texts AND write their own pieces. There were many times while reading this book that I paused, sighed, underlined parts I want to take with me into my own practice. Then there were times when I jolted up and professed my love--mad love--for Kelly Gallagher. This book is for writing what Kylene Beers' When Kids Can't Read, What Teachers Can Do is for reading. Practical, smart, detailed, (and funny!) Gallagher reviews strategies he has used to open students understanding of purpose & mechanics. His strategies empower students the tools they need to become effective writers, rather than red-pen-reactors. He, as a faithful member of the NWP, professes the need that teachers write and model writing: "Our students don't need the best writer in their classrooms to assign writing; they need the best writer in their classrooms to sit smack dab in the middle of those rooms and model the wrestling match we go through to produce worthwhile writing" (225). Armed with strategies & reflection, I am excited to teach a new group of writers this year.PS - I have noted that this book is finished, but I won't be done with it. I will keep it close by. Always.
What do You think about Write Like This (2011)?
A must-own resource for every English teacher. Gallagher is a great workshop speaker too!
—rose
Doesn't work in a one-to-one homeschooling type situation.
—Maxeo77
