April 2023 Protocol of the Month: Back to Basics: Revise and Edit.

​Hello Educators, 
This month's protocol can be used in any subject that has a writing component.  It will take just a few minutes to clarify what the differences between revision and edit are and that may spark an "aha moment" that will last a lifetime. Good luck and email me if you have any questions. 

BACK TO BASICS: REVISE AND EDIT (Collaboration, Feedback, Discussion, Writing)

Description: Proper peer editing does not happen by chance.  Preparing students to edit a partner’s work is key if the goal is to maximize learning. This entry-level approach will not only explain the differences between revising and editing, but how to work well within a team structure.  Other benefits include students being able to competently edit their own work as well as understanding various perspectives in the revision process.

Application: Use in English Language Arts and any subject that lengthy written work is assigned.

Process: Prepare students to use “Revise and Edit” strategy by asking students to answer what is the difference between revising and editing a paper.  Elicit answers and clarify the concepts: “Revising makes writing sound better and editing makes writing look better.”  Revising concentrates on the overall view or “big picture” of the work. Editing focuses on conventions of writing.  Share this graphic:
 
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Depending on the original assignment and level of student, instruct them to concentrate on revising first, then, editing (or students can revise and edit at the same time).  Model the strategy first so that students understand expectations. 

Resources and/or for more information: 
We Are Teachers (2014) 5 Peer Editing Strategies That Actually Work For Student Writers

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