In this clip we see children in Writing Workshop in a grade 1-2 multi-age class. The teacher, works hard to build a classroom community in this multi-racial, inclusive school that serves also a wide mix of socio-economic groups yet with some 54% of their students on free and reduced lunch. Several students with identified special needs are in this class.

You will see the work children, each doing their personal best, each receiving support and instruction, yet each functioning at very different levels of ability. Notice the different levels of sophistication of writing. Yet, students are assessed based on effort and progress. Each learns to value the work of others. This teacher prides herself on helping all students learn but honoring difference and diversity, not insisting that all children function in the same way or at the same level to be considered successful.

Michael Peterson, 2003

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