Walk+and+Gawk!


 * Strategy Name:**Walk and Gawk


 * Strategy Description:** A post-writing activity to share your final product.


 * Description/Name of the class in which you would use this strategy:** First Grade


 * Rationale:** Students need to understand when writing is for an audience. Knowing that their classmates will be viewing their work when they are done contributes to their purpose and stance as a writer.


 * Procedure:**
 * When students are going to start a writing project (or any project with a final product), notify them that they will be doing a walk and gawk.
 * At different stages in writing, have a walk and gawk for students to see what their peers are doing, giving them new ideas and perspectives.
 * At the end of a project, have students do a walk and gawk to see their classmates' final product.
 * Students may even leave post-it notes comments to tell what they liked!


 * Diverse Learners:**
 * Your visual learners will gain from the walk and gawks at different stages. Being able to see what others are doing can help spark new ideas.
 * Auditory learners may need to have the author read the text to them instead.


 * Potential Issues:**
 * Make sure students do not "take" other students' ideas, especially word for word.


 * Implementation Suggestions:**
 * Be sure to prep and model for students how to make appropriate comments about their classmates' work.
 * Some students may not feel comfortable sharing in this manner, offer to have them share with you instead!


 * Resources:**
 * Seaton, O. (personal communication, August, 2004).