8 Secrets to Successful Student Writing Conferences
If you’ve ever taught creative writing, you know the first thing that other teachers recommend is having student conferences about their writing. Those same teachers don’t often tell you what that is or how to do it. Here are 8 secrets to a successful student writing conference.
What is a Student Writing Conference?
A writing conference is a meeting between a teacher and a student to discuss the student’s writing and provide feedback and guidance. Writing conferences typically involve the teacher and student sitting down together and discussing the student’s writing process, goals, and areas for improvement. The teacher may provide specific feedback on the student’s writing, offer guidance and support, and help the student to set goals and plan for future improvement. Writing conferences can be an effective way for teachers to help students develop their writing skills and become more confident and skilled writers.
The Importance of Student Writing Conferences
Writing conferences are important because they provide an opportunity for teachers to provide personalized feedback and guidance to students on their writing. These conferences can help students to identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and can also provide a supportive and nurturing environment where students can discuss their writing and receive encouragement and support. This can be particularly helpful for students who are struggling with writing or who are unsure of how to improve their skills.
8 Secrets for Successful Student Writing Conferences
Secret #1 Have a Clear Schedule
A writing conference should never be a surprise. Set aside a dedicated time and space for the conference, and let the student know in advance so they can prepare.
Secret #2 Start with Goal Setting
Your first conversation should be a discussion with the student about their writing. Help the student to identify their own goals and strengths as a writer and encourage them to set specific and achievable targets for improvement.
Secret #3 Make it Personal
Conferences are a great opportunity to connect with young writers on a personal level. Take the time to get to know each student and their individual writing style and interests. This will help you provide more targeted and effective feedback. Having that personal connection will also help with classroom management, a must for a strong creative writing class.
Secret #4 Be Encouraging
You aren’t just a writing coach. You’re also a cheerleader. Conferences can be intimidating for young writers, especially if they’re new to the process. It’s important to provide positive feedback and encouragement to help them feel comfortable and confident in their writing.
Secret #5 Focus on the Content
When providing feedback to a student, focus on the content of the writing rather than the grammar or mechanics. This will help the writer feel more confident in their ideas and help them improve their writing skills over time. Make a note of the grammar issues. If you see the same issues in several students, you can set up a small group or class lesson about it later.
Secret #6 Be Specific
When providing feedback, be specific and give concrete examples of what’s working well and what could be improved. This will help the writer understand your feedback and take action to improve their writing.
Secret #7 Have Students Ask Questions
Encourage the student to ask questions and share their own thoughts and ideas about their writing. Students need to be able to separate themselves from their writing to be able to revise their work. They need to be taught how to be spot their own weaknesses. They also need to learn to trust you. Also, listen attentively to their answers. They will notice if you don’t.
Secret #8 End with Positivity
Put yourself in your student’s position. Would you want to leave a conference on a down note or leave feeling good about your writing? Never end a conference with negativity, dwelling on what the student didn’t do. End the conference on a high and encourage the student to continue working on their writing. This way, they will continue to seek out additional feedback and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Student Writing Conferences
Final Thoughts
Overall, effective conferencing with young writers is about building a positive, supportive relationship and providing specific, actionable feedback that will help them grow and develop as writers. By following these secrets, you can help young writers feel confident and motivated to improve their writing skills.
