After Micki’s post on The Right to Go Off Topic, we had a request to share the directions for the 3-sheet writing.  I don’t remember where it came from originally, but here is my handout:

3 Sheet Writing Activity

Purpose:        • Build Community in the Writing Classroom

                        • Review and reflect on writing process

1. Read a selection…could be memoir or a memorable piece of fiction….or a picture

    book… (pre-writing, topic generation)

2. Pass out 3 notecards -- could be 3 different colors.

3. Card #1:Write the name of a person or place or event that comes to mind after

    hearing the selection that was read; around the word, write other words and phrases

    that are associated with it.(pre-writing, topic generation)

4. Re-read/reflect on your brainstorming: circle one item that surprises or intrigues you.

    (pre-writing, focusing)

5. Pair-share (4 min. each)

            What is your subject?

            Why did you choose it?

            Tell something about the circled word.

    (pre-writing,rehearsing)

6. Card #2:Draft the story you have just shared with your partner. (drafting)

                      Share draft with partner. (PQP)

                        Is there something I have left out?

                        What else do you want to know? (conferencing)

7. Card #3:  Rewrite story with suggestions from partner. (revision)

8. Share writing in small groups.(publishing)

Reflection:

How might this activity be used with your students?

What might be a motivating text?

Could you incorporate other writing rituals and routines into this process?

A final thought – today I read a Facebook entry from a college professor suggesting that his students keep a journal of their daily routine, etc. during this pandemic as a way of documenting this unbelievable time -- sounds like a good suggestion for all of us!