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Steps in the writing process used to create the stories.
by Robert Lamothe, first grade teacher, copyright April 1996
1. Brainstorming -Children are asked to determine what the story subject will be and to think of interesting ideas, characters, and interesting things that will happen in the story.
2. Writing a first draft. The main focus of the first draft is to get the author's ideas into the story. They are asked to include things in the story that will be interesting to readers. They are also asked to check again if their stories have a beginning, middle, and an ending. (All stories were written by the author using inventive spelling in the first draft. No stories on The First Grade Home Page were dictated unless otherwise noted.)
3. Editing the first draft on their own. -Children edit their stories looking for things that need to be added such as adding more action and characters, changing the wording, adding missing words, and changing their inventive spelling to conventional spelling. They are also asked to check again if their stories have a beginning, middle, and and an ending.
4. Editing their story with the teacher in a story conference. We look for the same kinds of things as described in step three. Every effort is made to keep the story content and wording true to the author's choices.
5. Publishing the story. (computerized printed version).
6. Illustrating the published version.
7. Author's chair-sharing the story with the class. Children are given the opportunity to read their stories to the class and get feedback for their writing. Other class members are given the opportunity to offer their opinions and comments, ask questions, and offer any ideas for things that could be added to the story or ideas for a sequel.
8. Publishing the story on the World Wide Web.