The mini-lessons of the Writing Workshop teach concepts, strategies, and techniques for writing while encouraging students to write in different genres or styles.  The 10-15 minute mini-lessons gives teachers the opportunity to provide direct instruction, grounded in the CCSS.  The teacher will and model the lessons focus using a mentor text or the teacher's own writing. 

Sample mini-lessons can include:

• Launching the Writing Workshop (see Calkins units of study)

  • Rituals and routines

  • Habits of mind

  • first six weeks of school or if refinement is needed later in the year

• Writing strategies and skills from grade level Common Core Standards.

• Literary elements/Genre Studies

• Literary techniques

  • Voice,

  • Descriptive words

  • Strong Leads

  • Organization

  • Etc.