The Workshop Model at WHPS

What is the Workshop Model?

The Workshop Model is a dynamic instructional approach designed to make learning active, engaging, and student-centered. At WHPS, we use this model across various subjects to minimize passive listening and maximize participation, ownership, and critical thinking. Unlike traditional teaching styles—where the teacher models a skill to the entire class, and everyone completes the same assignment—the Workshop Model personalizes learning, allowing students to "learn by doing," exploring, practicing, and reflecting on new concepts.

Introduced in kindergarten and first grade, this approach helps students build foundational skills and routines. By upper elementary, students are proficient in this way of learning, which supports independence and opens the door to more advanced academic opportunities, critical thinking, and collaborative projects.

Key Components of the Workshop Model

The Workshop Model at WHPS follows a structured yet flexible framework with three primary stages:

1. Mini-Lesson:

   • A focused, brief introduction to a concept or skill.

   • The teacher engages students with direct instruction or an open-ended activity to connect learning to prior knowledge and prepare for hands-on practice.

2. Independent Work & Small Groups:

   • Students work individually or collaboratively to explore the lesson’s objectives.

   • Teachers provide differentiated support through small group instruction or individual conferences, tailoring learning to student needs.

3. Sharing & Debriefing:

   • The class reconvenes to reflect on what they’ve learned, discuss challenges, and celebrate accomplishments.

   • This process reinforces learning and encourages students to make connections between their experiences and future learning goals.

Why Does the Workshop Model Work?

The Workshop Model thrives at WHPS because of our emphasis on individualized instruction and collaborative learning. Its benefits include:

• Active Engagement: Students learn by doing, exploring new topics through hands-on activities and critical thinking.

• Differentiated Learning: Tailored instruction during independent work ensures each student receives the right level of challenge and support.

• Student Accountability: The model encourages independence and responsibility as students take ownership of their learning.

• Teacher-Student Connection: Individual and small group interactions strengthen relationships and allow for targeted, meaningful feedback.

How We Use the Workshop Model at WHPS

At WHPS, the Workshop Model isn’t a one-size-fits-all framework—it’s adaptable to the needs of our students. Below is an example of how we implement this approach across subjects:

Reading and Writing

• Mini-Lesson: Introduce a reading comprehension strategy or writing technique (e.g., making inferences, persuasive writing).

• Workshop: Students work in book clubs or write independently, applying strategies and practicing skills. Teachers confer with individuals or groups, offering targeted feedback.

• Sharing: Students present their insights, discuss their process, or reflect on challenges and growth.

Math

• Mini-Lesson: Teach a new concept, such as fractions or problem-solving strategies.

• Workshop: Students work on differentiated tasks aligned with their skill level, from foundational practice to advanced challenges.

• Debrief: Review strategies and highlight shared successes or areas for improvement.

Science & Social Studies

• Mini-Lesson: Introduces topics such as ecosystems or government systems using essential questions and key concepts to guide learning and spark curiosity.

• Workshop: Students engage in hands-on learning through experiments, research projects, or simulations. They may collaborate in small groups or work independently to explore topics that interest them most. Projects and presentations allow students to share their findings with the class. Techniques like the jigsaw method ensure that as students present, the class develops a comprehensive, big-picture understanding of the topic or issue being studied.

• Reflection: Students showcase their work, and the class synthesizes multiple perspectives to deepen their understanding of broader concepts, such as the American Revolution or immigration. This collaborative process reinforces connections, encourages critical thinking, and builds a shared understanding of the subject.

The Power of Differentiation in Workshops

Workshops at WHPS are tailored to meet each student where they are. Through small group instruction and individual conferencing, we provide:

• Challenge for Advanced Learners: Activities that stretch critical thinking and encourage creativity.

• Support for Developing Learners: Scaffolding and targeted instruction to build confidence and mastery.

This approach ensures every child feels both supported and challenged, creating a rich learning environment for all.

What Sets the WHPS Workshop Model Apart?

The Workshop Model at WHPS is a reflection of our educational philosophy:

• We emphasize student voice and choice, empowering children to take ownership of their learning.

• We integrate collaborative learning, helping students build communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

• We connect learning to real-world applications, fostering a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.

Why the Workshop Model?

Research and experience confirm that learning happens best when students are active participants. According to Edutopia, structuring lessons with workshops encourages deeper learning by:

• Fostering curiosity and critical thinking.

• Allowing for personalized learning experiences.

• Helping students develop independence and resilience.

At WHPS, the Workshop Model is more than a teaching strategy—it’s a way to inspire lifelong learners who are ready to tackle the challenges of the future.