Week 2- Best Practices by Steve Graham, Charles A.

MacArthur, and Michael Hebert, Chapters 1-2

Best Practices is essentially about teaching writing using the best practices. Chapter 1

focuses on what those best practices actually are. It shows that they are evidence based, and

gives anecdotal evidence. It talks about how writing develops and how to help students acquire

writing skills and knowledge. Chapter 2 is about creating a supportive environment for students

to write in. It emphasizes the importance of dedicating time to write and allowing it to be a social

activity. It also talks about the importance of building a positive community. It talks about setting

up writing centers, allowing for peer conferences, or having secondary writing centers. It also

touches on ensuring that the necessary supports for writing are in place.

This book provides excellent insight and advice for teaching writing. First, I was unaware

of all the evidence based practices. Since this is our first introduction class to teaching writing, I

had never even been introduced to the writing practices yet. In chapter one when it first

introduces the content, I was really interested to learn about it. I will definitely be incorporating a

lot of this in my own lessons. Second, I really enjoyed all of chapter two. I, too, believe in the

significance of a positive and supportive classroom. Sharing writing can be difficult, vulnerable,

or even embarrassing for many students. Building that safe space allows students to feel

supported and thrive when sharing their work. I will create designated writing spaces and set

aside dedicated time for writing in my own classroom. Finally, I really loved the section in

chapter two about peer feedback. I really struggled both receiving and giving feedback in school

because I never wanted to hurt somebodys’ feelings, and I never wanted to feel like I was doing

poorly. I think establishing norms and making sure that students are giving constructive feedback

and not just feedback are essential pieces to to this. I will be implementing peer feedback in my

lessons.
 Best Practices is a great introduction to the evidence based ways we can become our best

educators and selves. We can amplify student voices in a supportive environment and allow

students to teach each other and grow from each others’ advice and not just our own. This is a

book I will reference often as a teacher and I am excited to delve deeper into these practices.