Writing Share

Writing Share gives an opportunity for a student to read a piece of writing and receive feedback. The Writing Share Rubric should be used to guide the implementation of the Writing Share format.

Each day two students have ten-minutes each to read full drafts or excerpts of their writing and receive feedback. The purpose of the Share is to receive feedback that will inform revision of the writing. Therefore, polished, final copies are not read during the Writing Share format.

The person sharing “sets up” the Share by briefly explaining the purpose/genre of the piece and the kind of feedback sought. Children in primary classrooms sit in front of the class and hold their piece as they read, showing pictures accordingly. Older students display their writing on a document camera as they read, if one is available, then move to the front of the room to take comments and suggestions.

Teachers should follow the rules established for everyone else by raising a hand and waiting to be called upon if they have something to say, demonstrating that the Writing Share rules apply to everyone and are observed by all. This demonstrates that the author is in control of his or her writing and of the process of seeking out insights to help its development. Usually audience members will attend to the same issues and concerns that the teacher holds in mind, and comments delivered by students tend to be received more enthusiastically received than those given by a teacher. As a rule, teachers should refrain from offering their comments and suggestions until students have had opportunity to clarify or elaborate on an audience comment.