For the week 30th - 4th December the focus was placed on Creating a Climate for writing. 

In a differentiated classroom there are several things that should be happening in order for students to write freely. 

First the teacher should create an environment that motivates the writer. 

    The teacher can instill self-efficacy, develop self-regulated learners and develop internal motivation. Self-Efficacy is having the children believe in themselves and give them the authority over their decisions about the activities they chooses a the amount of effort they will exert. Developing self-regulated learners are where students monitor and control their thought processes in order to learn. Developing internal motivation is showcasing the learners enthusiasm  and efforts used in accomplishing or participating in a task. 

Secondly the teacher should create a safe and positive writing atmosphere

    In this environment the author's work is accepted. Students are eager to engage in writing experiences. The teacher encourages and motivates students while also challenging them. Students are able to express themselves in the environment. Positive expectations are displayed on charts. Uniqueness of writing is conceptualized and welcomed. 

Thirdly the teacher should create an exciting writing environment

    Razzmatazz to thingamajigs by creating authentic activities to gain experience so children would be eager to work with new topics. Materials related to the content would be used to build interest and motivate the writer. Cool Tools are used and varied in size, colour, shape and texture of writing implements. Students can choose the different tools they may want to write with, such as brushes, markers, pencil, pen etc. Material magic by changing the climate activities, use post its, computer or even have students draw instead if write and tell the story based on the pictures. Ready References means students have easily access to ready references. 

The teacher can also use find the right spot, find the write spot; establish author ownership; assess the writing climate. 

R.Hazel