Reading-writing connection

"In a typical lesson I will direct the students back to whatever they're reading."

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Vivian's overall approach to teaching writing

"So as it's evolved in writing workshop, typically now I will teach a particular genre...."

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Creating a safe community

"I think the most important thing, the first thing, is to un-intimidate the process...."

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Community-building strategy

"The Monday meeting for me does two things."

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Importance of allowing time to write and talk about writing

"I don't think any of us are going to do our best if we don't feel valued and respected wherever we are...."

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Helping students see themselves as writers

"I think, in part, if I name them as a writer and have them feel that they are writers, that you take on—then you take on that persona."

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Valuing the variety of talents in a community of writers

"I think, in general, part of my responsibility as a teacher is to highlight everyone."

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Strategies to build a safe writing community from the first day

"From day one, I want my kids to know that they're writers and that they are in a community of writers."

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Importance of celebration in a community of writers

"One of the other ways that the community gets, I think, gets extended and reinforced is celebration."

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Setting guidelines as a community

"In building community, I don't tend to give a lot of rules."

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