Tuesday, June 4, 2013

As a Writer...

Writing has become so much more than words on a page. I see and appreciate so much more about the writing process since becoming a writer myself. It was always in me but suppressed by fear. This community is what brought me out of that fear and helped shape a more confident writer, free to express herself. I wasn't sure what my slice would be today, my sick daughter (sinus infection), the beautiful sunshine (perfect day to be outside), a poem (HERE) or my growing excitement for the ALL WRITE!!! conference later this month...it could have been any of these.  Then Stacey's question begged to be answered.

What does being a writer myself do for me as a teacher:

  • grows my confidence
  • puts me through the frustration of not having anything to write about
  • gives me something to share
  • allows me to model planning, drafting and revision....yes even in kindergarten
  • becomes a bridge to drawing, another love
  • reminds me that writing is a process
  • connects me to other teachers who love teaching 
  • makes me vulnerable
  • makes me think and process more
  • helps me to reflect as a learner
  • reminds me that writing is fun and stirs my enthusiasm...therefore stirring my enthusiasm to teach writing.
I think that last one is what makes the most difference. Before I was a writer my enthusiasm for writing was lacking. I was at a loss. I didn't really know how to do it and how to create excitement. I saw writing as a "thing" to be done on the list of things. I now know better. I know it is so much more, so much more than just words on a page. 

If you didn't get a chance to see all the chalk-a-brators last week you should check them out. Remember, there is another Chalk-A-Bration on June 30th, July 31st, and August 31st! 


7 comments:

Stacey said...

What a fantastic foundation your Kindergarten students are getting from their teacher who is a WRITER! They have a great mentor in front of them.

Tara @ A Teaching Life said...

Lucky you to be at Allwrite this year - please write about it for those of us who can't be there!

Tammy said...

The SOL community has done much of the same for me, and the All Write changed my teaching life a few years ago as well. I wish I was going again this year, but it's a long drive for me. Have fun and please share!
Tammy

Robin said...

Bullets 1, 2 and the last one are things I would put on my list too. Its interesting to see how similar yet different everyone sees writing's impact on teaching. I loved your poem link today too!

Linda B said...

I love all that you wrote, and explained, Betsy. It's so important to write. I am often amazed at the idea that someone thinks they can teach writing without writing them selves.

elsie said...

I love what you wrote! And I can't wait to meet up with everyone too!

Anonymous said...

So many teachers think they can't be writers. I like how you said, "before I was a writer." Makes it feel possible for others to "become."