The Seven Steps is an Easy System
We've asked Seven Steps schools for the best (and easiest) ways to implement the program.
Here's what they say!
Each Step takes about two weeks to master - depending on the age and ability of a class.
1. Start with the Top Techniques
Introduce each Step by giving students the Top Technique handout from the teacher manual.
2. Practise with a Five Day Activity
In the first week, spend 5-15 minutes a day practising the chosen Step. Many of the activities in the teacher manual or student workbooks are designed for repeated use. (e.g. Five Minute Fast Starts.)
3. Reinforce with Real Life
In the second week, extend the activities to those that are more unusual or linked to real life. (e.g. analyzing TV ads or telling jokes.) Great for boys, kids with learning difficulties or ESL students. Repeat every two weeks with a different Step.
When do students actually write a story?
Don't make writing hard work! It's best if students don't create a story until after Step 3 and then once more after Step 7. (Think of the correction time saved.)
When writing full pieces scaffold students a lot. Encourage them to:
- Brainstorm first (10 good ideas = 1 great idea)
- Plan and plot ideas on a blank story graph
- Use friends to brainstorm tension scenes (Five Senses tension activity)
- Try out 2-5 Sizzling Starts
- Write dialogue scenes with friends.
DON'T rush it!
Avoid the 'quick fix' mentality. The more consistently you practice the skills in class, the more the change will be successful. Kids' writing WILL improve - and most of all, they will have fun.
Laughter and learning really do make a huge difference, (even uni research proves it) so go for it!