What is Writer's Workshop?

The basic philosophy behind Writer’s Workshop is that students write every day for real purposes about things that interest them. Students learn the craft of writing through practice, conferring and studying mentor texts. The ultimate goal is to develop life-long writers. Writer’s Workshop is a framework for teaching writing. The framework is successful in all grades starting in Kindergarten. The Writer’s Workshop has a structured order of events that occur daily within a block of time. Writer’s Workshop opens with a Mini-lesson directed by the teacher to the whole class group. This is followed by an Independent Writing time during which the teacher conferences with either individuals or small groups of students. Additional instruction takes place during this time. Writer’s Workshop closes with Sharing time. Sharing can include the whole group, small group or partners.