The Workshop and Meeting Expectations (Homework) February 6, 2007

I think writing workshops are a great idea in theory, but lack greatness in practice. An ideal workshop is a great idea, but is it practical? I personally have had more bad experiences in workshops than good ones. No one wants to hurt each others feelings with the truth. I think it would be practically impossible to have one in middle school and high school. Chances that the nerdy girl is going to be too intimidated by the popular girl to give her real feedback. People are trying to fit in in middle school and high school and telling someone that their writing needs help may not be the best way to do it. I also think that kids are going to need more specific lessons to meet all the classroom objectives.  I think one thing that can definitly be incorporated with the classroom expectations is the freedom of choice that Katie Wood Ray pointed out. Teachers can give students choices within the curriculum.