Peer Feedback Workshop

Unit Context

This lesson is Lesson 17 in the unit "Voices of Courage and Resilience," where students have been developing imaginative texts that express themes of courage and resilience. This session focuses on refining their writing through collaborative peer review, enhancing critical thinking, editing skills, and oral communication.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this 45-minute lesson, students will be able to:

• Apply critical frameworks to provide constructive, specific feedback on peers' imaginative texts, focusing on narrative elements such as characterisation, plot development, thematic expression, and language choices.
• Reflect on peer feedback to identify opportunities for revising their own writing.
• Use agreed criteria to assess imaginative texts, demonstrating understanding of text structures and language features that convey courage and resilience.
• Communicate feedback respectfully and effectively in a collaborative setting.

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NSW Curriculum Links

This lesson aligns with the following outcomes and content descriptors from the NSW English K–10 Syllabus:

• EN5-3B: Reflect on the effect of language, stylistic features, and imagery on meaning in texts (including imaginative texts).
• EN5-4A: Use effective and cohesive paragraphs, and a range of language features to express and develop ideas.
• EN5-7D: Review and edit their own and others’ texts, explaining the effect of editing choices.
• EN5-10C: Identify and understand how language features and structures influence readers’ interpretations and responses.

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Lesson Outline

Time	Activity	Description
5 min	Introduction and Purpose	Briefly explain the importance of peer review in improving writing. Emphasise respectful and constructive feedback. Review the criteria for feedback focused on imaginative texts and themes of courage and resilience.
10 min	Modelled Peer Review	Teacher models providing feedback on a sample imaginative text (prepared in advance) using the criteria. Highlight strengths and areas for improvement with reference to narrative elements and expressive language.
25 min	Peer Review Session	Students exchange drafts in pairs or small groups (depending on class dynamics). Use a structured peer review worksheet to guide their feedback, focusing on character, plot, theme, language, and clarity. Teacher circulates, supporting and guiding discussions.
5 min	Reflection and Next Steps	Whole class debrief: Discuss how feedback was delivered and received. Students identify one or two improvements they will make based on peer feedback. Set goals for revision work in the next lesson.

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Materials Needed

• Copies of student drafted imaginative texts (previously composed in class)
• Peer Review Worksheet with clear criteria (including space for positive feedback and suggestions)
• Sample imaginative text for modelling feedback
• Writing materials (pens, highlighters)

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Detailed Activities

Introduction and Purpose (5 minutes)

• Set a positive tone by explaining that peer review is not just about finding errors, but about helping each other to develop powerful stories that show courage and resilience.
• Recap the key success criteria from the unit rubric: effective characterisation, clear plot structure, use of language to create mood and meaning, and consistent thematic development.

Modelled Peer Review (10 minutes)

• Read aloud a selected student text or teacher-created example.
• Think aloud as you annotate the text, pointing out effective imagery or character decisions.
• Show how to phrase feedback constructively (e.g., "I like how you showed courage through the character's decision; perhaps the tension could be stronger if you described the setting more vividly.")
• Display/hand out the Peer Review Worksheet with criteria:
• Character: Are they believable and show courage or resilience?
• Plot: Is there a clear conflict and resolution?
• Theme: How well is courage or resilience demonstrated?
• Language: Is the language descriptive and engaging?
• Suggestions for improvement.

Peer Review Session (25 minutes)

• Organise students in pairs or small groups depending on classroom space.
• Each student reads the partner's draft and provides feedback using the structured worksheet.
• Encourage students to start with positives before suggestions.
• Teacher actively supports by moving around the room, prompting deeper thinking, and ensuring respectful communication.

Reflection and Next Steps (5 minutes)

• Facilitate a class discussion on experiences: What was helpful about receiving and giving feedback? What challenges did they encounter?
• Prompt students to identify one or two specific goals to take into revision next time.
• Remind students next lesson will focus on revision based on peer recommendations and personal reflection.

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Assessment and Differentiation

• Formative Assessment:

• Teacher observation of peer review discussions and feedback quality.

• Review of completed peer review worksheets to monitor understanding of narrative elements and ability to provide constructive criticism.

• Differentiation:

• Provide scaffolding sheets/example feedback comments for students who need support.

• Encourage stronger writers to give more detailed textual evidence and explanations.

• Some students can assist peers who require literacy support during the review.

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Classroom Management Tips

• Set clear expectations about respectful and supportive communication before starting.
• Monitor group dynamics closely to ensure equal participation.
• Maintain a calm, purposeful atmosphere encouraging thoughtful critique rather than simple correction.

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This lesson plan equips students not only to critically engage with texts but also to actively improve their own imaginative writing. Integrating peer review practices develops both analytical skills and positive collaboration, foundational for confident literacy and lifelong learning.