Creating Young Writers: Using the Six Traits to Enrich Writing Process in Primary Classrooms (3rd Edition) (Creating 6-Trait Revisers and Editors Series)
Third Time’s a Charm Is it possible that one book could serve as a quick, easy to use resource for just about everything a primary teacher needs to know about writing instruction? After reading Vicki Spandel’sCreating Young Writers: Using the Six Traits to Enrich Writing Process in Primary Classrooms(3rded.), I’m starting to think this might be the one. True to form, Spandel continues to open our eyes to the most important concepts about teaching writing, but in the third edition of this trusted resource, she does so while seamlessly weaving the six traits together with the components of writing workshop, writing process, and authentic literature. In this edition, we encounter Spandel’s familiar voice of knowledge and reason, as she takes us back to the roots of the six traits, clearing away the cobwebs collecting on those old rubrics and inviting us (giving us permission?) to celebrate real, true writing in all its forms - and in the products of our young writers . In doing so, she reminds us that – as valuable as rubrics and terminology may be - our best instructional decisions still rest in the hearts and writing of the children sitting in front of us every day. To readers of Spandel’s other works, this will come as no surprise. So, then, what’s new in the 3rdedition? Lots! For starters, the entire book has been redesigned, making it more user friendly than ever, and the organizational structure is completely different. In this edition, everything about a single trait is grouped together, making finding specific information faster and easier. Two chapters are dedicated to each of the six traits – one that clarifies the trait followed by a chapter that gives practical ideas for integrating it into your workshop and process instruction. Spandel scaffolds our own learning as she shows us how to model writing and highlights what we need to look for (and say!) when exploring the concepts of each trait with our learners. Spandel includes a new feature - perfectly placed side bar notes called “Keys to Success” - where she shares useful tips and thoughts to help you stay focused and on target. You’ll also notice stronger conversations about the writing process and the writing workshop sprinkled throughout the new edition. And, if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate the revised primary writing guides and continuums as well as the addition of writing guides for our youngest writers who aren’t yet ready for the traditional ones from the second edition. Reading the 3rdedition ofCreating Young Writersis like revisiting an old friend who’s just back from college. The same, familiar companion, but wiser for the time away. Updated with new sample papers, book recommendations, and study group reflections, this book is a must have. Whether you’re new to writing instruction or you’re checking back in for a tune up, you’ll feel an instant connection with an author who knows her stuff and knows how to deliver it well. And, when she’s done, you’ll walk away content that you’ve invested your valuable time wisely and empowered to apply your new learning to your daily writing instruction. Terry Thompson Instructional Intervention TeacherWindcrest ElementaryNorth East ISDSan Antonio, Texas    A Must Have You'll want to place the name of this brand new title at the top of your holiday shopping list: "must have." This book is the perfect gift for the professional library of individuals who work with young children. Vicki Spandel's latest and greatest work once again reflects Vicki's masterful skills when writing about writing. What a talent! She's created an easy-to-follow format so that the textual organization makes learning about the traits almost easy--enjoyable, entertaining, exciting. New samples of student writing (sometimes with original art) permeate various explanations and narratives throughout the text. One of the greatest assets you'll find in the 3rd Edition: new writing guides designed to make assessment at primary level both easy and age-appropriate. Along with more emphasis on children's literature using various trade books from Vicki's workshops, this text will prove to be very beneficial to you within the context of a number of scenarios: if you are a professional educator or para-educator involved in instructing young children; a day-care provider working with little ones; a staff developer needing support for early childhood workshops; a principal wanting to enhance your school's professional library; or if you are the leader of a study team wanting to learn how to do a better job of teaching writing at the primary level.Creating Young Writerswill fill the bill and provide you with invaluable insights about teaching writing to young children! Enjoy your learning! Vicki makes the journey fun! Donna FloodPart-time FacultyCapella UniversityMinneapolis, MN