Final Insights

The second-to-last theory chapter of "Adolescents on the Edge" opens with the importance of writing's role in critical thinking. I liked that the authors touched on the history of writing in relation to how educators' view of it has changed. Now it is seen as a cognitive process, although leftovers from the sequencing viewpoint are still present. I think that while the simple sequencing view is hurtful, parts of it are helpful. A lot of my kids need guidance when it comes to writing, and sometimes they just don't get it as a thought process in the beginning. The kids who are especially unconfident in their writing love having basic guidelines. The authors do a great job of explaining how the writing process expands into a cognitive process, which now will help me guide those above-mentioned kids.

The final theory chapter focuses on performance and writing. The authors share fun suggestions for in-class performances, from reader's theatre to turning a classroom into a coffeehouse. I especially loved the coffeehouse suggestion. It is a fun way to continue the oral tradition of poetry. Students will break into teams to "plan" their coffeehouse show in class. They have a publicity team, a decorating team, and a logistics team. It is an engaging way to enjoy poetry and practice life skills.

I would definitely recommend this book as a classroom necessity for any teacher. It is full of fun ideas that are easy to do, and many could be worked into existing lesson plans. The authors show how to make writing an experience rather than a chore, and their focus on social justice is especially welcome. My only issue is that it lacks suggestions for ELL students and ESE students. Many of the activities are not hard to adjust for all types of learners, but I would have liked more perspective on it from the authors.

Golden lines:

"Writing is a complex activity; more than just a skill or talent, it is a means of inquiry and expression for learning in all grades and disciplines." 

"If even one student walks out of the schoolhouse doors for the last time and has not experienced what it means to care for and connect with peers in a community or become involved in meaningful, challenging learning, that's one too many."

Strategies:

• The Freeze Frame: Students act out a scene but freeze at the climax. They then share their characters' thoughts and feelings with the audience.
• Panel Discussions: A group of students reads the same text and discusses it in front of the class.

Resources:
Linked below is a fun and tech-friendly poem creator. It's basically fridge poetry for phones or tablets. 

• App site here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/poetry-creator-verses-poetry/id371925480?mt=8
• Video explanation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7TrtQzpDUM