The Missing Piece: Writer's Workshop Revised

Writer’s workshop is utilized in schools throughout the nation to increase student writing achievement. Despite its implementation, students still struggle in writing proficiency and lack enthusiasm for the method of instruction. Discovery learning is a method of instruction that allows students to manipulate, problem solve, and test ideas. It encourages inquiry and socialization, while allowing students opportunities to explore the topic before incorporating it into their writing; thus students’ ability to apply the learned information improves. Because discovery learning activities allow for socialization, experimentation, and authenticity, student motivation towards writing increases as well. Five guidelines are outlined in the article to assist teachers with the incorporation of a discovery learning component to the writer’s workshop daily block: remain skill specific, vary the activities, include tangible materials, allow for peer interaction, and keep it short. By following these guidelines, teachers can improve their daily writing instruction, resulting in increased student motivation and achievement