Description

The writing center provides opportunities for students to express personal thoughts, feelings and opinions through print and illustrations. Students develop an understanding of the three purposes of writing and explores written language with a variety of writing utensils.  Students will use a combination of drawing, dictating, and writing to engage in creative expression.

Purpose

•  develop a positive attitude towards writing
•  identify the 3 purposes of writing ( to express a an opinion, share information, or tell a story)
  
•  practice letter formation
•  practice connecting letters and words to convey meaning
•  create personalized writing pieces using a variety of utensils and materials
•  demonstrate proper grammar and sentence structure
• create lists, stories, letters, books, cards, posters, signs, etc. 
• develop fine motor skills
• develop sequential concepts
• provide exploration opportunities with a variety of writing materials
  

Suggested Materials

• pens and pencils
• colored pencils
• crayons and markers
• highlighters
  
• dry erase markers and boards
• lined and unlined paper
• colored paper
• pre-made booklets
• spacer sticks
• sight word lists
• envelopes and cards
  
• variety or writing paper
• picture dictionaries
• sentence strips
  

Questioning Examples

These guiding questions can be used to assist the teacher, instructional assistant, or parent volunteers in supporting children's development and learning during play.

• Who or what did you write about and why?
• Share your writing with me.
• How can you extend your writing?
• Why did you select these writing materials?
  
• Why did you write _______? What could you add?
• What illustrations could you add to your writing?
• What letters/words do you see around the room that you want to write?
  

Considerations

Please note materials should be rotated as themes and student interests change.  At the beginning of the school year it is important to start with minimal materials to teach proper use and cleanup. This center needs a table area and sufficient space for students to explore and interact with materials. 

Photo Examples