Writing in the Elementary Classroom Community of Learners

As the world continues to change and adapt, so too should the classroom. Finding an instruction methodology that can adapt to the needs of all students, however, can be challenging. Even more so when it comes to teaching elementary writing. Retired educator and author Darlene L. Smith knows this struggle all too well. It was only after implementing Community of Learners in her classroom that Darlene’s struggles transformed into successes—for herself and her students. Community of Learners is a how-to guide on facilitating an innovative learning environment to enhance student writing in the elementary classroom. This delivery method redefines the elementary classroom as a community where student agency, responsibility, and participation accelerate learning. From reorganizing the physical space and teaching positions to dividing time and stating clear objectives, Community of Leaners (COL) centres student needs. Using this methodology, students learn to share their ideas, ask constructive questions, and provide peer-to-peer support. As students take on more responsibility for their own learning, teachers transition into a facilitating role. Motivated by the community environment, students become independent and interdependent learners who talk, write, and learn together. Not because they have to, but because they need and want to. Based on Let Them Show Us the Way by Anne Green, this handbook is a compilation of instruction, resources, and advice from Darlene’s many years mentoring teachers. COL may start off as a writing methodology, but as Darlene experienced, students will love it so much they’ll want to use it throughout the school day.