For many years I did the Status of the Class as described by Calkins, Graves…et al. But today I take stock of the work we’re doing in the writing workshop a bit different. I think it is because of the nature of the writing class itself I can do this. I am browsing and conferring with the kids frequently and invariably know what they are working on and where they are in the process I don’t have to rely on the traditional way of doing the Status of the Class. It still has value at the beginning of the year when some writers are getting to know me and what the writing class structure is like.
It does at that time give those who need a little scaffolding the opportunity to hear what others are doing. They learn from this conversation. Once the writing class is up and running though I like to use a visual Status of the Class. On that I can see from anywhere in the room. I can immediately see what the young writers have identified they will be working on that period. As I browse the room looking for someone who may need my help or to kneel down and have desktop conferences I can constantly be on the lookout for someone who is may need encouragement, a helping hand or need to be redirected because they have lost their way. The magnetic popsicle sticks work magic in the writing class for a Status of the Class.
I used this form with my class for their recent speeches. It worked really well! It is ...