A Community of Writers: Teaching Writing in the Junior and Senior High School

by Steven Zemelman

Building on the experience and expertise of many teachers they've worked with as well as the growing literature on composing, classroom dynamics, and whole language, Zemelman and Daniels offer detailed guidance for all aspects of teaching and using writing-from workshop methods to prewriting and revising to issues of grammar and evaluation.

Genres: Teaching, Education, Nonfiction, Writing

288 pages, Paperback

First published June 8, 1988

Reviews

[Laura Leaney · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're a new teacher, this book's value might be more than any puny star rating can measure, despite the fact that it was penned in the late 80s. I've owned this book forever - but had only skimmed it in an effort to stay current in some long ago class.

I'm not a fan of writing groups - I have a very deep personal bias because of my need for solitude, or at least silence, to compose anything of value - so I do not love the emphasis on "community" in Zemelman's and Daniel's book. Writing circles and role playing don't appeal to me. Still, just because I think they're awful doesn't mean that these strategies won't work wonderfully for students needing support, encouragement, and safety.

There are good ideas in here, ones that haven't thus far been replaced by the internet or Common Core prompts. I don't know why reading the book made me feel a little blue. I don't remember my high school English class ever depending upon clustering, concept mapping, or role playing. Perhaps if it had, I'd have been a better and more prolific writer.

I did admire the positivity of the book and the emphasis that in order to be a good writer you've got to read.

A lot.

Amen.

[Kate]

nice

[Nyree Clayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so sad that i lost this book

[Roux Stellarsphyr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though outdated (1988) with respects to technology in the classroom, the essence of process-centric writing is alive and well in Zemelman and Daniels. I'm disappointed this wasn't included or suggested in my education classes or in my introductory composition studies course. A must for all teachers, not just English teachers, and parents alike, this handbook is not only built on strong theory but is exquisitely practical.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

For all of my teacher friends out there - this book is really helpful for teaching writing! It really made me rethink my curriculum and I'm definitely going to make some changes for next year.