First, there is total involvement in composing. Second, there is diversity. Students are working on writing that they have chosen to do, so all kinds of writing are going on simultaneously and students are at all different stages in the writing process. Third, the environment is cooperative. As a result, there is a constant hum of voices rather than silence.
Students work in small groups, pairs, and alone.
They are free to move about the room as the need dictates. Fourth, the teacher knows the current work of each student as well as the progress each has been making. In many cases, the teacher also has goals for individuals. Related to this monitoring and planning for instruction, the teacher is actively engaged working with individuals and small groups throughout the workshop time. Fifth, students behave autonomously.