Writing Groups

Writing groups are used during the revising stage of the writing process to help with CONTENT only! This activity is not used for mechanical errors. The process is a read aloud process so that the students do not get bogged down with the mechanical errors present in the writings. This process MUST BE MODELED in order for it to be successful. The writing groups form after 2 or more students have completed their rough drafts. During the group time students will complete the following steps with EVERY member of the group.

1.Read drafts: only the reader looks at the paper (does not focus on mechanics!)

2. Make Compliments: The listeners offer the reader compliments on the content of his or her story.

3. Ask Clarifying Questions: The writers ask the listeners if there are any spots that they should redo. This might be a time for the writer to ask for help on predetermined areas (writers block).

4. Others offer Suggestions: The listeners provide the reader with helpful tips to improve their writing. (It is helpful to create charts of examples of good ways to offer suggestions).

5. Repeat the process: Steps 1-4 will be repeated with all group members.

6. Make plans for revising!