This year the Writing PLC is working to support both our teachers and students in further developing the level of writing success experienced in our students. Our main focus for achieving this is working with VCOP. As part of the philosophy behind VCOP, we want to be creating a process that starts with discussing writing and ends with celebrating it. VCOP comes from the work of Liz Roswell and aligns to her premise that, ‘if children can say it they can write it’. Through the year, we are hoping to find events and features of our school community and life that stimulate conversation and discussion which can be naturally extended into writing. In doing that, our aim is to develop a culture at our school that writing has purpose and meaning, and that we write to share our thoughts and feelings.
With this in mind, the events coming up for Charity Week would be a great opportunity for the children to write about. Next week, all classes will be buzzing and talking about the activities of the day. Teachers will also be taking photos of each activity. We would like to ask all teachers to make sure they take the time to talk about and reflect on these activities with the children. This could be using the photos taken through the week to discuss and share during class assembly/pastoral care time or even creating a photo board displaying Charity Week photos. The aim is to encourage discussion, and generate thoughts and ideas.
Then in the following week (Week 11), we would like students to participate in a writing activity sharing their experiences during Charity Week. This could be set as the writing homework task for the week or a journal activity in class. We will then set up a writing display area to share different pieces of writing for others to read. If students do not want to have their writing displayed, this is fine. It will be on a voluntary basis or we could ask teachers to pick a few samples, however we would like all students to participate in this activity. PLC members will pass out special paper for children to use. Thursday, November 5 is the due date for those who wish to submit their published work for display. (If needed, we are happy for teachers to pass pieces of writing on the Monday after due to there being no school on Friday.)
Below we have generated some writing topics that the children could use, but each year level can think of their own if they wish. Perhaps a writing task that relates to your current unit of work, with the Charity Week theme. EAL teachers, EAL students will also have the opportunity to participate in this activity. Andrea will discuss this further with you next week.
Suggested writing topics could be:
I had a great time during Charity Week because….
My favourite part of Charity Week was…….
What does Charity Week mean to me?
Write a retell about your favourite Charity Week activity
Explain why Charity Week benefits those who give, as well as those who receive
Write an acrostic poem about CHARITY WEEK
Imagine if you wanted to organise Charity Week, what would you include in Charity Week and why? Write a letter to Mr Hehir to persuade him.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email Melissa or speak to your Year Level Leader.
Thank you for your support!
English PLC Team
