“Does That Even Count?”
SOLSC24 · Teaching

“Does That Even Count?”

Leah Koch

This morning, during our second grade morning circle, I shared that I was disappointed because I ran out of time to write last night. “I was so busy doing my taxes that by the time I finished, I was in a bad mood and I just wanted to go to bed.” The class nodded sympathetically, indicating they’d seen the same story play out with their adults at home.

“So, I just wrote three sentences about how much I hated taxes and went to bed.”

Skeptical faces looked back at me.

“Does that even count?” a girl asked.

Pause: I LOVE that I decided to share this story and I LOVE that this was their response. In a few short days, these students will be embarking upon their own Slice of Life Story Challenge journey, and this was a great lesson for them.

“YES! Of course it counted. I wrote, didn’t I?” The kids agreed, impressed. “When you’re doing your challenge, it’s okay if there’s a day where you only write a little bit. All that matters is that you write.”

Yesterday was also the day I hung up our student SOLSC tracking chart. Students get to add a sticker for each day they write. The buzz is building, and I am so excited to go on this journey with them again!

Want to participate with us? More info here.

Published by Leah Koch

Leah is a second grade teacher who is passionate about honoring student voice and identity through writing. She believes that in order for children to see themselves as writers, they deserve trust and autonomy to learn more about themselves and their writing process. If students identify as authors, the motivation, skills, and craft will follow! You can find Leah on Twitter and Threads @LeahKoch_. Leah slices at leahkochtwt.wordpress.com

6 thoughts on ““Does That Even Count?””

  1. How fun!! I love the low stakes alongside your vulnerability. You’ve created such a safe, nurturing space 🤎

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  2. What a great discussion to have with students! I struggle with the line between letting kids feel comfortable with writing anything and letting them feel comfortable never challenging themselves to write pieces they’re proud of. I guess maybe some years the writing itself is enough to be proud of. (Thanks for letting me think aloud. I have some good food for thought as I move through these last few days before the classroom slice of life!)

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