Teaching writing in French is always a challenge. Unlike vocab lessons or reading activities, where the lessons are set, writing is a much more personal activity. Yet, my previous tactic was to provide the students with a writing prompt and hope they did a good job. It worked – sort of – but the students never got a truly meaningful (and differentiated) writing lesson.
That’s when I implemented French writer’s workshop. It was revolutionary! Students went from having no say in what they wrote about to being able to choose a topic. All I did was select the type of writing we were learning about.
With this novel, personalized approach, I suddenly had a quiet classroom of students diligently writing for the whole lesson, as opposed to being “done” in just 5 minutes.
So, what is French writer’s workshop? How does it work? And why will I never teach writing in French another way again? Let’s find out.
What is Writer’s Workshop?
A writer’s workshop is a simple way of teaching writing in French. Instead of telling students what they should write about, you create a workshop about a specific style of writing: procedural, narrative, etc. Students can then work together or individually to develop a piece of writing in the same style.
Here’s how it works: The writing block kicks off with a brief, targeted mini-lesson focused on a specific style of writing, such as procedural writing, narrative writing, or descriptive writing. This mini-lesson not only introduces students to the genre but also provides concrete examples and strategies for writing within it.
Following the mini-lesson, students transition to the writing phase, where they apply what they’ve learned to their own writing projects. Students are given the freedom to choose their own topics and themes. The only criterion is that it has to make sense – e.g., you couldn’t write a non-fiction piece about fairies.
Throughout the workshop, the teacher provides individualized feedback and support. I like to sit at my u-table, and help students who ask for help, as well as call students over to come work with me. Finally, the lesson ends in a sharing session, where students have the opportunity to present their work to the class.
3 Components of French Writer’s Workshop
1. Targeted Lesson
In a French writer’s workshop, each lesson is a building block in a larger structure. We focus on specific things per lesson as each lesson builds upon the next. Rather than bombarding students with numerous requirements – which it’s unrealistic to expect them to follow – we adopt a step-by-step approach. That helps keep the lesson digestible and effective.
For example, in narrative writing, you’ll start by showing them how to choose a topic and what you want them to say. It’s very much a “show,” don’t “tell” technique. You model the desired outcome, demonstrating the writing process, including what you’re thinking, in real time before letting them go away and discover how to do it for themselves.
This stage is really about creating a blueprint. Let them “think out loud” – these thoughts will help them to do the task.
2. Independent Practice
Here comes the tricky part – don’t expect your students to suddenly write continuously for extended periods right from the start. It’s simply unrealistic. Building up their writing stamina is essential. If you sense they’re getting distracted or no longer on task, it’s time to stop.
One technique to keep them writing for longer is to split your workshop into mini-lessons. Lessons can be segmented and interspersed with discussion (aka back to the carpet) before being sent off again for more independent practice.
Make it clear that you expect them to remain focused and productive. This isn’t the time to socialize with their friends! In fact, the sharing stage at the end should incentivize them to produce something.
It’s also an opportunity for teachers to provide individualized support, working closely with students who need additional assistance, either one-on-one or in small groups.
3. Sharing
This stage of writer’s workshop in French is a little more flexible, not confined to one-size-fits-all methods. Whether it’s partner sharing, small group discussions, or presenting in front of the entire class, it’s about fostering a collaborative environment where everyone has a chance to share.
Remember, some students aren’t comfortable sharing in front of everyone. That’s okay – although it is a valuable skill for later life. Such students can build up their confidence through partner or small group sharing.
But it’s not just about sharing. Through modelling, students learn to give feedback – including positive feedback and next steps – that is constructive and insightful. Their peers can then use this advice to improve their writing abilities. Encourage students to ask questions, think about their answers, and engage in group discussions.
Why Should You Do a Writer’s Workshop in Your French Class?
Struggling to teach writing in French? The French writer’s workshop is a masterclass in flexible, student-driven learning. You set the overarching topic and then let your students engage with the material and flex their creativity.
Here’s why it’s so beneficial:
- Differentiated Learning: Each student engages at their own level, allowing them to progress based on their current abilities and vocabulary knowledge.
- Personalized Instruction: Instead of a one-size-fits-all prompt, students receive the necessary tools and guidance to succeed in writing.
- Targeted Conferences: One-on-one or small group meetings enable you to provide specific feedback, helping students refine and improve their writing.
- Enhanced Engagement: Students tend to write more and stay focused longer, showing greater investment in their work.
- Skill Development: Through this approach, students learn not just to write but also to think critically about their writing and how to edit and improve it.
Looking For Ready to Go Units?
Creating a writing unit from scratch is a lot of work! If you’re struggling for time, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. You can use my ready-to-go units to get started. Simply adapt them for your classroom.
You can choose from:
Use these units in your French writer’s workshop to make teaching easier and help your students improve their writing in different styles.
Want to check out the resources listed?
All the links above lead to TPT, but the resources are also available on our website. Here are the resources available here for purchase in CAD. Don’t forget you can also buy credits for an additional discount (up to $15 off).
