Workshopping in the Classroom

Because of my focus on vocabulary and grammar so far this semester, I haven't started my other book, "Using the Workshop Approach in the High School English Classroom" until recently.  The central idea is that writers only get to be better writers through frequent practice and peer evaluation.  This sounds like common sense, but I really come away with the idea that writing is a skill that gets strengthened with the writing process.  Students should not be shying away from critique and revision, nor should they go long periods of time without opportunities to practice giving constructive feedback to others around them.

Runners cannot go out and run the Boston Marathon without practice.  Writers cannot be expected to write long, professional pieces without gaining the skills and confidence that comes from the workshop experience.

This chapter focused on "coaching" the workshop process.  At the beginning, the teacher might have to step in and model the process.  Maybe I will have to write a piece for them to workshop.  Maybe I will model giving constructive feedback.  As the process continues, though, I need to expect my students to take the leadership role.  As they gain the skills necessary, they can elaborately provide feedback and work on skills of being critical readers of others' work, along with learning skills to write their own work.

This process allows students to take a leadership role.  I know this comment may appear to be a sideline comment, but it's really important to me to create an atmosphere that fosters leaders.  Individuals who know how to articulate their own ideas, constructively and positively display those ideas in a respectful way, and stand by their own work, while also being able to adapt and revise.  Those sorts of skills are priceless in the real world, and they can absolutely be fostered in the classroom.

P.s. I really like this book so far.  The writing style and information is relaxed but instructive.