This summer I’ve been hard at work writing a draft of my new book that is about creating self-directed learners in the Writing Workshop. Today as the school year begins for many of you I want to give you a taste of my new book. Specifically, I want to share ten words I use to describe a writer who is self-directed. I am purposely using the word self-directed rather than independent because I think the two words, although share some things in common have some substantial differences as well. I’m hoping posting these words will start an interesting dialogue.
A common misconception about self-directed learners is that some kids are able to do this, while other students are not. My belief, which I share throughout the book, is that we as teachers can help all of our students become more self-directed if we organize our classroom towards this goal, as well as create a climate that encourages self-directed learning.
So here they are!
- Independent before Interdependent
- Risk Taker
- Confident
- Engaged
- Excited
- Persistent
- Resilient
- Resourceful
- Self-starters
- Self-regulators
I would love your thoughts on the following:
Are there other words that you would use to describe self-directed writers?
As you begin your year, do you see kids who either possess or don’t possess these qualities? I would love to hear the stories of the students that you are actually meeting.
What are you planning to do in your classroom to encourage more of these qualities?
