WHAT IT IS:

Drafting Timer refers to the use of timers to support focus and attention during writing activities.

HOW IT WORKS:

For any level of writing activity or age of students, consider using timers to increase focus and direct attention. Provide students with clear instructions for how the time will be used (what it should look like, sound like, etc.) and what the successful outcome will look like (wrote the entire time, never looked up or looked around the room, etc.).

Allot age-appropriate amounts of time that encourage challenge. Remind students that the time will signal a break so that they do not need to check on time.

Further, instruct students in the practice of setting their own drafting timers to facilitate their independent writing for optimizing focus.