We participate in Writer's Workshop everyday for 60 minutes. Our goal is to become proficient writers. We work through the writing process which includes research/prewrite, drafting, revising, editing, publishing, and sharing/reflecting. We focus on writing narrative, informative, and argumentative pieces in addition to free writing.

During our 60 minute writing block, students participate in:

> 10-15 minute grammar lesson

> 15-20 minute whole group lesson

> 20 minute independent writing time  

> 5 minute sharing time

During students' independent writing time, I meet with small groups and hold one-on-one writing conferences.

We also take some time on Friday's to write a letter home about our week at school. We brainstorm a list of things we either did and learned over the course of the week. These letters give parents an opportunity to view the week from their child's perspective. The notebook showcases each child's growth as a writer. 

The second grade quarterly themes and genres include:

Quarter 1: Uniqueness

Narrative: personal narrative

Informative: poetry

Argumentative: book review

Quarter 2: Cooperation

Narrative: realistic fiction

Informative: procedural

Argumentative: letter

Quarter 3: Survival

Narrative: narrative nonfiction

Informative: research report

Argumentative: flyer

Quarter 4: Adventure

Narrative: fantasy fiction

Informative: brochure

Argumentative: friendly letter