During our last writer's workshop, I was struggling to feel inspired by anything in my heart map. I just decided to pick a topic and try to write about it to fill the time. I chose crafting and after a sentence or two I was stuck again. Then, I remembered that there are no rules for format or style, so I started listing every type of craft I have done that I could remember. It was a way to fill the page, it got me thinking about the topic, and it was fun to get to write a list and not a narrative like I always default to. Plus, in the end it got me unstuck. It led me to memories from high school art class and changed where I thought the writing would be going.
When students are clear on expectations, pressure is alleviated
Less behavior problems, better classroom control
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Students can feel comfortable exploring different genres and styles when they know they are not being judged on certain requirements
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Builds skills for dealing with writer's block, feeling uninspired, etc.
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In my own teaching, I want to alleviate pressure from students. Limit the amount of grading and critiquing during workshop to allow it to be a sacred practice time. Writing, drawing, even being stuck are all parts of the process that student should get to experience and learn to navigate.
Too much pressure or harsh grading will make students feel bad about their writing or begin to dread workshop. That feeling can last for years, so it is important to avoid.
Students can feel safe to try new techniques and genres, developing a well-rounded writer.