The week of 16th-20th November

This week's session was a very interesting one. A discussion was held about effective writing instruction. Effective writing in the classroom involves: 

• students in focused and scaffold writing experiences using principled approaches to the teaching of writing such as the teaching and learning cycle or the writing workshop.
• dedicated, uninterrupted blocks of time for daily writing.
• the use of rich authentic texts as mentor or model texts.
• teachers modeling writing and making their own processes visible.
• whole group, small group and individual instruction.

I also learned about the Pen Portrait. A Pen Portrait is a mind picture constructed with the help of words. It creates a vivid description of a person.

Below is an example of my Pen Portrait. The Pen Portrait outlines my skills , competencies and attributes.

Abigail Williams is a confident, caring, enthusiastic and reserved individual who has the heart and passion for educating others. Abigail has acquired her experience from being in the classroom for five years. Abigail is currently enrolled in the Teacher Education Program where she is developing her skills needed to become an effective teacher. Abigail continues to grow, in particular her communication, patience, teamwork and her time management based on the challenge that has been set in her enrollment in the Primary Division.

As a teacher of writing, Abigail is called to be very patient, understanding and creative. Abigail is very committed to the cause as she seeks to use strategies and best practices that would help to develop her students writing skills.

Abigail can be described as an introvert, one who is able to to adapt to changes and challenges that may arise as a teacher in the classroom.