Thomas and Liam's discussion…
by pandora on Feb.08, 2011, under Literacy
During a lesson that was being observed by my Headteacher last week, I just heard a conversation that Thomas and Liam were having about trying to improve their writing. I placed my iPhone on their desk, and walked off, leaving them to carry on their discussion. Below is what was recorded, how sensational is this?
What a fantastic level of conversation!
February 13th, 2011 on 4:31 pm
Wow great works guys! Hope you are enjoying the project I know I did!!!
February 9th, 2011 on 9:54 am
What really impressed me about this conversation was how fully you considered many options, and how the discussion was all about finding the right word(s) for the piece of writing and not about one or other of you being precious about a word you thought of, and insisting on using it. It was great example of collaboration – which can be such a key part of the creative process. Like others, I was deeply impressed at how measured and considered your discussion was – I think some teachers would find it hard to give this much reflection to choice of words, let alone students
Putting this much thought into the choice of a single word is what makes the difference between an ok bit of writing, and a piece which blows the reader away! I hope we can read the final piece at some point.
February 9th, 2011 on 8:25 am
A great discussion boys and I think you came up with two very suitable words at the end of the conversation that would add to the atmosphere of the story. As other people have said you have set a great example for much older children and adults about how important it is to work together. I hope Mr M gave you top marks!
February 8th, 2011 on 9:25 pm
This is just brilliant boys! Not only have you worked together to improve your writing, you have mentioned the ‘reader’ so many times. Often, when we are developing as writers, we forget the needs of the audience. I also love your commitment to finding the right word for the job. You did not simply try one word and stick with it – you discussed it until you found the word that worked. Keep up the great work!
February 8th, 2011 on 8:28 pm
The amount of mutual respect and exchange of great ideas going on in this conversation is fantastic. As the teacher above says, I would love more of my secondary students to be able to interact with each other in such a mature manner about their work. Very well done to you both!
February 8th, 2011 on 8:16 pm
This is one of the most exciting conversations that I have listened to in a long time boys! Well done, your work is inspirational in every sense. I wish that some of the students at the university where I teach could work as well together as you two are
February 8th, 2011 on 7:05 pm
Fantastic discussion, boys! I wish more of my students (who are older than you) could discuss and work together they way you did here. Well done!
February 8th, 2011 on 6:55 pm
What a great discussion boys! I’m really impressed with the constructive and collaborative way you are working together here. Do either of you want to move to London so you can help my class?
Keep up the great work,
Jack Sloan
Ferry Lane Primary School
London.
February 8th, 2011 on 5:38 pm
Boys ~ I am simply blown away by the way you are working together, helping each other and providing constructive and fabulous feedback. NEURONS FIRING AND WORKING TOGETHER …BRAIN RESPECT TO YOU!!