NSU University School Viewpoint Fall/Winter 2017

VIEWPOINT n 3 G reat Write Shark is an innovative initiative that helps Lower School students at NSU’s University School refine and enhance their writing by working independently to demonstrate skills they learned in class. This on-demand response to a writing prompt takes place over three days and is an excellent means of assessing the development of writing skills over time. Great Write Shark aligns with concepts developed by Columbia University’s Lucy Calkins, one of the most influ- ential literacy educators in the country. “Our goal is to encourage our students to become great storytellers,” Cory De La Fuente, Ed.D., Lower School associate director, said. On the first day, students and teachers begin the process with a variety of brainstorming and thought-organizing strategies. On day two, after teachers announce, “Writers … off you go!” all students in first through fifth grades are given 45 to 60 minutes of uninterrupted time to pen their personal narrative. On the final day, students complete their edits and revisions and submit their masterpieces to teachers. Two rounds of Great White Shark take place each year, one in the fall and one in the spring. During the year, students explore narrative, expository, and persuasive genres of writing. The program helps students Write!