The feedback I received from my writing group was constructive, specific and timely. Brian mentioned that I might want to consider incorporating technology into my lesson. In response to this suggestion I found a great online crossword puzzle activity dealing with synonyms (for the words good, nice and bad). I could possibly use this as an extension activity or possibly assign it as homework. This site would provide a fun and interactive way for students to get additional practice finding synonyms.
Brian also mentioned that I might want to have my students draw a picture, based on the descriptions written by others in the class. This would show the students if their writing was providing enough detail by the drawings produced. This would also work well as an add-on activity.
Thirdly, Brian mentioned that I might want to provide some instruction on how to use a thesaurus before expecting my students to use one. This suggestion reminded me of the importance of not just assuming my students know how to do something.
Jessica also provided some important suggestions. She indicated the importance of ensuring that my lesson follows the “gradual release of responsibility” model to optimize student learning. Explicitly thinking and writing about these stages helped clarify my lesson. (I had followed this model in my write- up but hadn’t explicitly included this type of language.)
Lastly, Jody commented on the importance of this lesson (of finding synonyms) and suggested that this type of lesson be done frequently. We both agree that teaching students to add meaningful descriptions and details in their writing is an important skill to learn.
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