What is Guided Writing?
Could be:
- Re-running a shared session
- Preparing for a future shared session
- Extending a group
- Supporting independent writing
Guided writing is the name given to the range of
ways in which pupils are supported as they write
individually within the supportive context of the classroom. The
teacher scaffolds the writing process by:
- Providing a plan or writing framework
- Being available for an on the spot conference
- Presiding over a short, focused episode of collaborative peer
brainstorming when an answer is sought to a particularly thorny
problem
- Providing appropriate resources and reference materials and
helping individuals to use them if necessary
Moving from the support that is provided through whole
class shared writing to independent writing is fraught
with danger from many pupils. Having to produce a piece of writing
individually is a marked shift in responsibility from the
supportive context of shared writing. Guided writing – both in a
formal and informal context offers the opportunity for appropriate
scaffolding of the task. It also ensures that there are frequent
reference points for both teacher and pupils, so that each
individual is able to write with confidence in the knowledge that
help will be provided if needed and that a suitable framework is
being used to ensure that the writing is on track.
- Familiarises a pupil with the management of the writing
process
- Teaches pupils to be active participants in writing
conferences
- Enables pupils to think about writing as a means of individual
expression
- Supports pupils as they try to put into practice and
co-ordinate all that they are learning about words, sentences and
texts
- Helps pupils to gain confidence as they see other wrestling
with the same issues
- Provides a forum for pupils to discuss writing and the writing
process
- Helps pupils build up a language to talk about writing
- Provides total support for EAL pupils confronted with the
demands of written English
After children have participated in a series of modelled
and shared writing sessions, guided writing provides an
ideal context in which individuals can apply their new
understandings and skills. Guided writing focuses on a specific
text form, which provides the major scaffold for individual
attempts.
In some instances pupils may have been taught a particular text
form at some previous time, but may require consolidation and
further practice. Informal guided writing enables teachers to offer
carefully structured support to individuals within a group, while
encouraging independence. This helps pupils to gain competency and
confidence as they refine strategies and acquire more control over
the text and the concepts and conventions of writing.
Story Planning
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Reception
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