Feedback on Fiction
5th-graders wrap up fictional narratives.
The 5th-graders in Ms. Stephanie Teitelbaum’s class don’t just read fiction—they write it, too. Over three weeks they moved from first ideas all the way to finished stories, building their pieces step by step.
"They brainstorm ideas, choose a story, and build on it each day using the lessons we learn in class," explained Ms. Teitelbaum. "We begin by learning about plot diagrams and how to organize a story."
Along the way the students practiced figurative language to make their writing richer, wrote and correctly punctuated dialogue, and added sensory details so readers could picture the scenes. Once a draft was complete, they typed their stories in Google Docs, making it easier to revise and polish their work. Many writers would agree that this revising stage is where the real magic happens.
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"They brainstorm ideas, choose a story, and build on it each day using the lessons we learn in class," explained Ms. Teitelbaum. "We begin by learning about plot diagrams and how to organize a story."
Along the way the students practiced figurative language to make their writing richer, wrote and correctly punctuated dialogue, and added sensory details so readers could picture the scenes. Once a draft was complete, they typed their stories in Google Docs, making it easier to revise and polish their work. Many writers would agree that this revising stage is where the real magic happens.
"I read each story and leave detailed comments in Google Docs, and students use that feedback to make improvements," Ms. Teitelbaum said.
Before submitting their stories for a final grade, the students complete a self-review with Ms. Teitelbaum’s guidance. They also read a classmate’s story and fill out a Peer Narrative Review form, offering thoughtful feedback to one another.
"Peer reviews are important because they help the writer know what other people think of their story," said 5th-grade Aryn R. "You already know what you want your story to look like, so you can't really tell what's missing from it. But other kids—they don't know about your story."
"This is an important step because students learn to view their work through the reader's eyes, recognize strengths, and identify areas for improvement," Ms. Teitelbaum explained. "It also teaches them that good writing is a process that involves revising and refining, not simply writing a first draft and turning it in."
With their fictional narratives complete, the class is already looking ahead. Next, they will begin a 5-paragraph essay, starting with a strong thesis statement, then supporting it with clear body paragraphs and a conclusion. Ms. Teitelbaum’s high standards continue to challenge the students, and they keep rising to meet those standards—growing more confident and capable with every piece they write.
"This is an important step because students learn to view their work through the reader's eyes, recognize strengths, and identify areas for improvement," Ms. Teitelbaum explained. "It also teaches them that good writing is a process that involves revising and refining, not simply writing a first draft and turning it in."
With their fictional narratives complete, the class is already looking ahead. Next, they will begin a 5-paragraph essay, starting with a strong thesis statement, then supporting it with clear body paragraphs and a conclusion. Ms. Teitelbaum’s high standards continue to challenge the students, and they keep rising to meet those standards—growing more confident and capable with every piece they write.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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