Publishing with PowerPoint

An Instructional Unit for Fourth Grade

Developed and Written by:

Kristy Aycock

      The state of Utah has instituted a Gateway Program; students must be able to pass the Gates test in order to proceed on to the next grade level.  One of the major components of these tests is writing.  There is a strong need for more writing instruction in the classrooms.  In our district, we are required to teach writing using the Balanced Literacy Writing Workshop method.  An important component of this writing process is to have the students publish their work.  Using the district directed Writer’s Workshop program, it is difficult to motivate the reluctant writer because they do not experience having their published works recognized in a meaningful way.  Teachers have had their students publish stories in various book forms, on storyboard paper, on posters, and numerous other ways.  Still, the students become bored with the paper-pencil publishing. 

      Based on interviews with expert teachers and observations, many students do not have the desire to work hard and improve their writing if their stories are never viewed by anyone but the teacher.  Some students give up easily and say “that is good enough” because the published story ends up saved in a folder by the teacher or is sent home right after publication. Many of the stories sent home never make it, or are often thrown away if they do make it home.  Those saved in folders until the end of the year often meet the same fate. To make the writing process as effective as possible, there is a need to celebrate student successes and provide motivation.  Students need to share their stories in a dramatic way before their peers and family.  Learning to write well becomes important to students when they know that the writing will be publicly viewed and evaluated by the instructor and peers.