I’m devoting a lot of my thinking and attention to writing this year. How can I support students’ independence in writing? How can I encourage their transfer of skills from one unit to the next? How can I improve their awareness of themselves as writers? Reflection is a tool that I turn to again and again in my writing instruction. I want students to think “I’m here. This is where I need to be. This is how I will get there.” If they can navigate that metacognitive process independently, then I have no doubt that they will improve as writers.

Here is this week’s roundup of literacy links for some quick inspiration, tips, and refreshment:

• How to Make Comics and Cartoons from the NY Times.
• “20 Video Projects to Engage Students” from the blog, Ditch the Textbook
• Need a non-appearance related compliment? Most of these are spot on.
• I love these “40 Weird Questions to Ask Your Students”! Perfect for Morning Meeting or even awkward transition time.
• “In Defense of Graphic Novels and Those Who Read Them” from Nerdy Book Club
• Mental health break: “Don’t let fear keep you from writing.”