How to Become a Better Writing Teacher: A Conversation with Matt Glover

In this conversation, Matt Glover, former teacher and principal, now a full-time writer and consultant, and I discuss his book, How to Become a Better Writing Teacher, co-authored with Carl Anderson (Heinemann, 2024)Key Highlights from ConversationAuthor’s Background* Matt Glover's experience as a first-grade teacher, assistant principal, and principal of a large early childhood school.* Shifted interest towards teaching writing, influenced by colleagues and educational leaders like Carl Anderson and Katie Wood Ray.Importance of Teaching Writing* Glover’s interest in how children compose and think.* Emphasis on the importance of teaching writing from an early age.* Discussion on the role of equity in teaching writing, ensuring all students can express their thoughts regardless of language and transcription skills.Engagement and Choice in Writing* The impact of choice (topic and genre) on student engagement.* Strategies for supporting meaningful choice in the classroom to enhance engagement.* The correlation between engagement and achievement in writing.Building Confidence in Young Writers* The significance of building students' confidence as writers.* Techniques such as using children as mentors in writing conferences.* The positive effects of showcasing less confident writers as mentors.Effective Writing Instruction Practices* The role of teacher's own writing in the instructional process.* The power of peer partnerships and long-term student collaborations.* Practical strategies for conferring with students and asking empowering questions like "What are you making?" and "What have you done well as a writer?"Evolving Writing Units* Incorporating modern forms of writing like podcasts and TED Talks into the curriculum.* Glover’s perspective on the cautious use of AI in teaching writing.* The importance of maintaining authenticity in teacher-created writing samples.Advice for Teachers* Start with one action or strategy from the book and work on it incrementally.* Utilize the assessment tools provided in the book to personalize and guide instructional improvements.* Commit to long-term growth and incremental learning rather than trying to overhaul teaching practices all at once.Interested in learning more?* Check out the two-day online institute for the book, co-facilitated by Matt Glover and Carl Anderson in July. Register with Heinemann here.* Watch our conversation with Carl Anderson to kick of this book study here.* To integrate more authentic assessment in your writing instruction, I humbly recommend my book on digital portfolios. it is a powerful approach for engaging and empowering students as writers and learners. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit readbyexample.substack.com/subscribe