My Zone of PD: Writers Read Better - Narrative #PDLove

I have been quoted quite a few times saying there needs to be more fluidity between reading and writing. I have even gone so far as to suggest a “reading/writing workshop.” I believe giving learners two entry points to construct an understanding of their goals is essential. I believe giving learners double the time to work on a goal will help them achieve Gladwell’s 10,000 hours rule for practice. Reading like a writer and writing like a reader just makes sense when it comes to comprehension and revision. What better way is there to understand the author’s intent than to have one and craft it?

While I was busy talking, thank goodness M. Colleen Cruz was busy writing! Writers Read Better - Narrative is exactly what you need to bring this to life. It will give allow you to slow down and give your students the time they need to approximate, experiment, and transfer the skills, strategies, and crafts they are learning. Whether you use the Calkins’ Units of Study, Jennifer Serravallo’s Reading and Writing Strategies books, or the Common Core State Standards, this book is the perfect resource for you.

Here is what I LOVE about this book:

1) Colleen starts with the writing lens first! YES! Writing is more constructivist and personal so it makes sense to start there. Students will understand these concepts better when they experience using them firsthand.

2) The organization of the lessons makes perfect sense from a reading/writing perspective. Rather than getting lost in lots of lessons, Colleen helps us see the big picture from a writing/reading perspective. It is easy to skim each part and find an entry point for your students.

3) The lessons are short and accessible! I love that each lesson is paired from a writing/reading point of view. Colleen clearly explains the teacher’s role and the student’s role in each lesson. There is a suggestion for student application. While Colleen may reference a specific text in the lesson itself, she makes it clear that any range of texts will work. She outlines this in the “Lesson Intended For” section of each lesson.

4) The Introduction is NOT to be missed. She provides foundational information, procedural advice for using the book, tips for scheduling, and ideas for digital considerations.

5) Tried and True Lessons for me: Part 4 is so powerful! Lessons on symbolism, word choice, tense choice, and audience will support you in navigating these complicated ideas with elementary learners.

6) Did I mention the online resources, videos, and solutions to common problems?

I read this book when it was published this summer. I loved it right away, but I wanted to use it in classrooms before I recommended it. It is always in my coaching bag, teachers have told me it has helped them see the connection between read-aloud and writing workshop and it is saving them time. Saving time in an elementary classroom … now that is a powerful ending!

Don’t miss Colleen’s first book in this series: Writers Read Better - Nonfiction Order them both …NOW!