Writing in the Elementary Classroom Community of Learners
An Implementation Guide
by Darlene L Smith

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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.

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Darlene L. Smith has worked as a special educator, classroom teacher, school administrator, and district leader, mentoring other teachers in implementing COL in their classrooms. After completing her M.A.Ed in 2003 and 2011 Leadership Academy (Learning Forward), she moved from the border town Lloydminster “SaskAberta” to British Columbia. She is an alumna of UBC’s Transformational Education Leadership Program 2018. After thirty-seven years of working in education, Darlene retired. Community of Learners is her first book. When she’s not researching innovative learning environments, she enjoys gardening, cooking and pursuing her wellness. Darlene lives at Saratoga Beach on Vancouver Island with her life partner Michael.

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Contributors

Author

Darlene L Smith

Illustrator

Primary students of COL classrooms SD72 BC

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