In this set of videos, a teacher models how to use a revision guide to revise a sample literary student essay with active participation from her students. Then, educators discuss the revision demonstration.
For the purposes of this video demonstration, the teacher will work with students to revise the whole essay—addressing many of the elements on the Literary Writing Revision Guide. Also, the suggested revisions to the essay will usually be displayed after they have been written or made.] In an actual content area classroom, it is important to scaffold the revision process by (1) focusing on only one or two elements at a time, (2) modeling for students how to write or make the revisions to the original draft, and (3) providing several rounds of revision per essay over several class periods.
Locate the Sample Student Essay: Literary handout.
Have your Literary Writing Revision Guide also available.
As you watch the demonstration lesson, follow along on your copy of the essay. Make the suggested revisions and record any ideas, comments, or questions.
When you are ready, click play on the video below.
In the first video, the teacher helped her students use the revision guide to revise and make the beginning of the essay stronger. Think about how she reinforced the importance of "showing," rather than "telling."
Next, review the revision guide and place a checkmark beside what you think needs to be revised next.
When you are ready, click play on the video below. Remember to make the suggested revisions and take notes on your copy of the essay.
Now, review the revisions that have been made so far on your copy of the essay. Refer to the revision guide and think about what else might be added to strengthen the beginning of the essay.
When you are ready, click play on the video below. Remember to make the suggested revisions and take notes on your copy of the essay.
What events do you think might have happened after the Harpers fell in the river? Write your ideas.
When you are ready, click play on the video below. Remember to make the suggested revisions and take notes on your copy of the essay.
Review the elements of a strong ending on your revision guide. Think about what suggestions you would give to improve this part of the student's essay.
When you are finished, click play on the video below. Remember to make the suggested revisions and take notes on your copy of the essay.
Next, click play on the video below to watch a discussion of the revision demonstration. Listen carefully and think about how you would participate in the conversation.
Remember, it is important to scaffold the revision process in content area classrooms by focusing on only one or two elements at a time and providing several rounds of revision per essay over several class periods.
Even though many elements were addressed in the demonstration lesson, the essay could still be improved.
Look at your revised draft and the revision guide. What other elements would you encourage this student to address in later revisions? Write your thoughts in your teaching journal.