Episode 107 Thoughts on "Free Writing" and Journals

The term "free writing" is used often, and I have to say, I don't love it. To me, it signals that providing students "freedom" to choose their own topics, make mistakes, right without what is considered "proper structure", make mistakes or go at their own pace is something that is different from or outside of the writing that is typically done. Hear more of my thoughts on this term and its meanings, as well as what I feel to be important when thinking of utilizing journals in the classroom. Hint...it's all about PURPOSE!**Teachers! We want to hear from you! We want to hear your story, experience, aha moment or insights related to Getting Students to Write! The more we share, the more we learn together, the more we can accomplish for our writers! Click the link below and record a voicemail. Your story may be featured on the podcast:) Send a voice message to GettingStudentstoWriteAbout Melissa:Melissa is an enthusiastic educator and continuous learner with over 19 years' experience in education.  Her passion and expertise is transforming writing programs so that teachers are confident in writing instruction and student writers thrive! She strongly believes teachers are the key to effective instruction and their writers are their best resources.Melissa knows that too often, explicit writing instruction is pushed aside in elementary education, and she feels it is her calling to help schools make it front and center, providing teachers with the knowledge and support necessary to implement effective and engaging writing instruction.  Teaching to Transform, LLC was founded by Melissa in 2018 and partners with school districts to provide professional development in writing instruction.If you would like to learn more or refer Melissa to your district, check out her website below!Website and Blog Read the latest blog posts and find out more about services provided by Melissa TikTok Follow Melissa for tips and support with writing instruction!YouTube Find out more about teaching writing as you watch webinars and model lessons taught by MelissaLinkedIn Connect with Melissa!