At a professional learning workshop in the fall, we went around in our circle and offered tips to each other for report card writing. I thought it was a great way to have an opening and also a great way to share ideas and strategies during this time of year. Many of you may already be thinking about report card writing or even be in the middle of writing by the time this is published, but I’d like to share some of my own tips and ones that were shared with me.
First, know what conditions you need to focus on your writing. For me, I need silence but I know many other educators who have a ‘report card playlist’ or who are able to maintain focus with some ambient sounds in the background. I definitely require a well lit space (it helps if there is a view) and I put my phone in another room… I can be easily distracted!
My next tip is to take breaks when you need them. When I sit and write, I know it takes me a while to get started, but I have also learned to recognize signs that I need a break. My mind starts wandering or slowing down and I lose focus – two key indicators that I need a movement break. I will get up and walk my dog for a quick outdoor break and it’s amazing how 15 minutes outside recharges my brain instantly. Whatever your clues are, think about the strategies you need to refocus and bring yourself back to task.
Just like some of my students students, I like to use a timer. I’ve tried a few different techniques in the past, such as finishing all of one subject before a break or writing for three students and then a break, but I’ve found that a timer helps me the most. I’ll set my timer and then keep track of how many comments I can write during that time. It helps to keep me accountable, but can also help me to anticipate when I will likely need a quick break as well.
Last tip: plan your snacks! I’m all about the snacks to fuel my motivation and I like to have some things in the house on hand….Whether popcorn is your snack of choice or fresh fruit, having those things ahead of time is handy. One educator I met told me that their staff members each bring a snack pack or fruit or such to give to every staff member; each educator then goes home in report card writing season with a variety of snacks.
This time of year when report card due dates are looming on the horizon can be daunting. While I love the opportunity to reflect on student learning, I also acknowledge the immense amount of time and energy that writing takes. Some of you may already have these strategies, but you might find some new ideas and maybe even some reminders of tried and true methods that have worked well for you in the past. If you’ve got more tips, share them with your colleagues – and me!
