There is a good deal of research out there to show that "more
significant" teaching of grammar and mechanics actually hurts
children because it is ineffective AND it takes time from more
meaningful tasks. Use the personal grammar list that Atwell
recommends and do mini-lessons when necessary. Constance
Weavers "Teaching Grammar in Context" is a great resource that
argues against traditional grammar instruction and gives some
examples of how to teach grammar in a more effective way. I
also found Atwell's "Lesson that Change Writers" to be very
useful.
The bottom line is that, if your students are reading and
writing regularly and receiving the necessary support through
mini-lessons and individual conferences, they will improve
exponentially in spelling, grammar, and written expression.
This improvement will naturally carry over to the standardized
tests. And it DOES work! My students raised their scores
overall this year with the workshop method.
So take the leap! You'll be amazed at how much more engaged
your students will be in their own learning.
On 4/26/08, Grammar Lover wrote:
> I've been excited at the prospect of teaching MS English
> next year, and have been thinking how to teach it. I love
> so much of what I've read about W/R workshops - have been
> studying Atwell's book - but I'm still wondering if my
> students would be okay without more insignificant
> grammar/usage/mechanics - because isn't THAT what the state
> will be testing in the spring (sadly enough)?
>
> I would love to hear success stories, especially if you had
> this same concern, but your students scored well/better on
> the eoy state tests. Thanks