Modeling the Writing Process: A Powerful Tool for Teaching Writing [Ep. 21]

One of the most powerful shifts I’ve made in teaching writing came after a professional development session with Kelly Gallagher—writing in front of my students. In this episode, I’m sharing how modeling the full writing process in real time helps students see that writing isn’t about perfection—it’s about thinking, revising, and trying again.

Instead of showing a polished final draft, I let students watch me struggle, rethink, revise, and push through the messy middle. This approach shows them that writing is a process, not a product—and it gives them the confidence to take risks and engage more deeply with their own writing. If you’ve ever wondered how to help students become better writers by showing—not just telling—this strategy might be the one to try.

Read more in the show notes. 

Resources mentioned in the episode:

• Write like This by Kelly Gallagher

Related episodes and blog posts: 

• Engaging Students in Writing

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